World’s first high-speed pure methanol engine successfully completes testing on Rolls-Royce test bench
Recently, Rolls-Royce successfully completed testing of the world’s first high-speed marine engine powered solely by methanol as a single fuel. The test was conducted on a test bench in Friedrichshafen, Germany. Through the joint efforts of the meOHmare research project partners, Rolls-Royce engineers have set an important milestone on the path towards climate-neutral, environmentally friendly marine propulsion solutions.
Dr. Jörg Stratmann, CEO of Rolls-Royce Power Systems, said: “This is a true world first. To date, no other high-speed engine in this power class has been able to run entirely on methanol fuel. We are specifically investing in future technologies to provide our customers with efficient decarbonization pathways and further consolidate our leading position in the field of sustainable propulsion systems.”
Rolls-Royce’s goal is to provide customers with efficient decarbonization solutions, which aligns with the “Low Carbon” strategic pillar in its multi-year transformation plan. At the same time, this project is highly consistent with Power Systems’ strategic initiative to expand its marine business.
The meOHmare joint project, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, brings together the expertise of Rolls-Royce, injection system specialist Woodward L’Orange, and the WTZ Roßlau Technology and Research Center. The project aims to develop a complete CO2-neutral marine engine solution based on green methanol by the end of 2025.
The world’s first high-speed pure methanol engine successfully completed testing on a Rolls-Royce test bench, marking an important milestone for Rolls-Royce and its partners Woodward L’Orange and WTZ Roßlau in the meOHmare research project on the path to achieving climate-neutral, environmentally friendly marine propulsion solutions.
Methanol places entirely new demands on engine engineering technology: unlike diesel, liquid alcohol cannot self-ignite, requiring completely new injection technology. Dr. Johannes Kech, Head of Methanol Engine Development at Rolls-Royce Power Systems, said: “We fundamentally redesigned the combustion process, the turbocharging system, and the engine control system, and even adapted the test bench infrastructure. Initial tests show the engine is running smoothly, and fine-tuning is currently underway.”
Denise Kurtulus, Senior Vice President Global Marine Applications at Rolls-Royce Power Systems, said: “This successful test sends a clear signal to the industry: green methanol is a fuel for the future, and the relevant technology is already mature. Single-fuel methanol engines are an attractive solution, especially for ferry, yacht, or supply vessel operators looking to reduce their carbon footprint. The next task is to create the necessary framework conditions for broader application.”
At the same time, Rolls-Royce is also developing dual-fuel engine solutions capable of using both methanol and diesel, as a transitional technology until green methanol becomes widely available.
Methanol engine tested on the Rolls-Royce Power Systems test bench
Since the beginning of 2023, Rolls-Royce, injection system specialist Woodward L’Orange, and the WTZ Roßlau Technology and Research Center have been jointly advancing the meOHmare joint project funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. The project aims to develop a complete CO2-neutral marine engine solution based on green methanol by the end of 2025.
Green methanol is considered one of the most promising alternative fuels for the shipping industry. If produced using renewable energy via power-to-X processes, its operation can be CO2-neutral. Compared to other sustainable fuels, methanol is easy to store, biodegradable, and produces significantly fewer pollutants.
Denise Kurtulus concluded: “For us, methanol is the fuel of the future for shipping – clean, efficient, and climate-friendly. Compared to fossil fuels, its combustion emissions are significantly lower; compared to other sustainable energy sources, it has a higher energy density.”
Zhou Yahong, General Manager of Rolls-Royce Power Systems Greater China, said: “China is a core global market for Rolls-Royce Power Systems. The breakthrough in this pure methanol marine engine test aligns closely with China’s demand for green development in shipping. We will accelerate the localization of this technology and, together with local partners, use innovative power solutions to support the sustainable upgrade of China’s shipping industry.”
