Rolls-Royce Power Systems will present a range of new marine propulsion technologies and service offerings at SMM 2026, with the latest developments aimed at improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions across multiple vessel segments.

At the centre of the Hamburg showcase will be the new mtu Series 2000 variable-speed generator sets, which Rolls-Royce Power Systems claims can deliver up to 15% lower fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared with constant-speed gensets. The variable-speed capability is designed to allow the units to adapt to different load profiles, making them suited to electric and hybrid vessels. The range spans 8V to 16V variants and is targeted at passenger ferries, search and rescue (SAR) vessels, offshore support vessels, yachts and patrol boats. The units are said to offer reduced noise and vibration levels compared with conventional alternatives.

Complementing the genset range is a new selective catalytic reduction (SCR) exhaust after-treatment system, which Rolls-Royce Power Systems says meets IMO Tier III emission standards — enabling vessel operators to operate in emission-regulated zones.

Dr Lukas Köhler, Senior Vice President Global Marine & Mining at Rolls-Royce Power Systems, commented: "As a company within the Rolls-Royce Group, we actively evaluate, research and invest in future technologies to offer our customers the right propulsion technology for their fleets — both today and in the future — and support them with the expertise of our engineers and our service team throughout the entire service life of their vessels."

Rolls-Royce Power Systems' product portfolio includes mtu-brand high-speed engines and propulsion systems for ships, heavy land, rail and defence vehicles, as well as power generation solutions. The parent company, Rolls-Royce Holdings plc, reported annual underlying revenue of £17.8 billion in 2024.