Ahead of the major autumn yacht shows in Cannes and Monaco, Rolls-Royce has further expanded its portfolio for the yachting market.
As announced at SMM 2026, Rolls-Royce has introduced two systems based on the mtu 2000 engine series. These consist of standardised variable-speed gensets and a new SCR exhaust after-treatment system.
According to the manufacturer, the propulsion system is so compact that it enables the single-deck engine room concept, which is highly advantageous for yachts. With these new solutions, Rolls-Royce aims to strengthen its holistic ‘From Bridge to Propeller’ approach, in which propulsion, energy management and automation work in tandem.
“Our aim is to offer shipyards and owners a comprehensive and future-proof range of solutions for yachts. This is not just about individual components, but about the optimal interaction of the systems on board to deliver greater performance, efficiency and lower emissions,” says Lukas Köhler, Senior Vice President Global Marine & Mining at Rolls-Royce Power Systems.
Lower fuel consumption, lower emissions
A key component of this expanded range is the standardised variable-speed gensets based on the mtu 2000 series. They adjust their engine speed to match actual power demand, thereby reducing fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions during operation by up to 15 per cent. At the same time, they operate around 6 dB more quietly, which significantly improves comfort on board.
With electrical outputs ranging from 650 to 1,850 kWe, the gensets cover a wide power range. Their high power density and compact design allow for flexible integration even where installation space is limited. They are also suitable for battery-assisted marine applications and can be used, for example, as range extenders.
According to the manufacturer, the product is based on its decades of experience with diesel-electric propulsion systems. Numerous large ships already have variable-speed mtu generator sets based on the 4000 series on board, and a number of yachts benefit from diesel-electric propulsion systems based on the 2000 series.
The new SCR exhaust after-treatment system also expands the range of applications for the mtu 2000 series in emission-regulated maritime areas. The system, which is being certified in collaboration with exhaust after-treatment specialist Eminox, meets the requirements of IMO Tier III and reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by 75 per cent compared with the IMO II limits. Depending on the load profile, the solution is designed for a service life of up to 16,000 operating hours, requires no compressed air for dosing and can be flexibly integrated into various ship designs.
With ‘From Bridge to Propeller’, Rolls-Royce states that it aims to view the yacht as a complete system: from the controls on the bridge to the propulsion system in the water. To this end, the company combines its expertise in propulsion systems, energy management and automation to create integrated solutions that improve efficiency, safety and cost-effectiveness.
Rolls-Royce states that this approach offers an additional advantage for shipyards. They receive a coordinated solution from a single source. This reduces the effort involved in design and integration and minimises interface risks. The integration of mtu propulsion systems, mtu NautIQ Bridge and automation technologies also creates a unified digital environment. This helps shipyards and owners to manage energy flows, reduce emissions and increase availability, according to Rolls-Royce.
