Rolls-Royce has successfully tested what it calls the world’s first high-speed marine engine powered entirely by methanol, marking what the company notes is a significant step toward cleaner propulsion options for commercial vessels.
The test, conducted at Rolls-Royce Power Systems, Friedrichshafen, Germany, is part of the meOHmare research project, which is a partnership with fuel injection specialist Woodward L’Orange GmbH, Feuerbach, Germany, and research center WTZ Roßlau. The program, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, aims to develop a CO₂-neutral, high-speed methanol engine concept for ships by the end of 2025.
Rolls-Royce said methanol is gaining attention as a marine fuel due to its clean-burning properties, easier handling compared with other alternative fuels, and potential for carbon neutrality when produced from renewable sources. The company highlighted that unlike diesel, methanol does not ignite spontaneously, requiring an entirely new injection and combustion process.
“We have fundamentally redesigned the combustion process, turbocharging, and control systems—and even adapted our test bench infrastructure,” said Dr. Johannes Kech, head of methanol engine development at Rolls-Royce Power Systems. “Initial tests show the engine is running smoothly; now it’s time for fine-tuning.”
The meOHmare team’s prototype engine represents an early step in developing viable methanol propulsion for smaller, high-speed commercial and government workboats such as ferries, supply vessels, and patrol craft, the Rolls-Royce press release said.
“This is a genuine world first,” said Dr. Jörg Stratmann, CEO of Rolls-Royce Power Systems AG. “There is currently no other high-speed engine in this performance class that runs purely on methanol.”
The company said the development aligns with its strategy to expand its marine portfolio with lower-carbon technologies. Alongside its single-fuel methanol concept, Rolls-Royce engineers are also pursuing a dual-fuel design capable of operating on both methanol and diesel as a transitional technology while supply chains for green methanol mature.
“With this successful test run, we’re sending a clear signal that green methanol is a practical, future-oriented fuel — and the technology for it is here,” said Denise Kurtulus, senior vice president of global marine at Rolls-Royce.
