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Rolls-Royce has won a contract to supply its Promas propulsion system for two new car and truck carrying ships which are being built in South Korea for Greek shipping company Neptune Lines.

Promas is an integrated propeller and rudder system that is said to increase efficiency and manoeuvrability. The vessels, to be built by Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co (HMD), will also feature steering gear and deck machinery from Rolls-Royce.

The two ships were originally specified with a competing propulsion system from another supplier, but following additional model testing to demonstrate the possible efficiency gains, Neptune Lines selected the Rolls-Royce Promas system.

Neil Gilliver, Rolls-Royce, President - Merchant, said: "Neptune Lines were determined to install an energy-saving propulsion system on these ships, and I’m delighted that they have chosen Promas. The test results exceeded our expectations, showing significantly higher propulsion efficiency than our competitor. This contract not only recognises the quality and reliability of our system but also opens up future business opportunities with Neptune Lines."

HMD has also signed an agreement with Rolls-Royce for further model testing of Promas in order to evaluate its suitability for a number of other vessel designs. HMD will instruct an independent tank test institute in Korea to conduct the tests, where competing energy saving systems will also be evaluated.