Friedrichshafen, Germany | October 27, 2025 – Rolls-Royce has successfully tested the world’s first high-speed marine engine powered exclusively by methanol, marking a breakthrough in climate-friendly propulsion solutions for the shipping industry. The engine, tested on Rolls-Royce’s state-of-the-art test bench in Friedrichshafen, is part of the meOHmare research project, developed in collaboration with injection system specialist Woodward L’Orange and the WTZ Roßlau technology and research center.
“This is a genuine world first,” said Dr. Jörg Stratmann, CEO of Rolls-Royce Power Systems AG. “To date, there is no other high-speed engine in this performance class that runs purely on methanol. We are investing specifically in future technologies to provide efficient ways for our customers to reduce CO2 emissions and further strengthen our leading role in sustainable propulsion systems.”
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A Milestone for Climate-Friendly Shipping
The test engine represents a critical step toward CO2-neutral marine propulsion. Methanol, when produced using renewable energy through power-to-X processes, is fully CO2-neutral and offers significant environmental advantages over traditional fossil fuels. Compared to other alternative fuels, methanol is biodegradable, easy to store, and produces significantly fewer pollutants, while maintaining a high energy density suitable for marine applications.
Unlike diesel, methanol does not ignite spontaneously, requiring Rolls-Royce engineers to completely redesign combustion processes, turbocharging, injection systems, and engine controls. Even the test infrastructure was adapted to accommodate the unique properties of methanol.
According to Dr. Johannes Kech, Head of Methanol Engine Development, “Initial tests show that the engine is running smoothly — now it’s time for fine-tuning.”
The meOHmare Project: Collaboration Driving Innovation
The success of the world’s first high-speed methanol marine engine is the result of the meOHmare research project, a strategic collaboration between Rolls-Royce, Woodward L’Orange, and the WTZ Roßlau technology and research center. The project, which began in early 2023, is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, reflecting Germany’s commitment to advancing climate-friendly technologies in the maritime sector.
The goal of meOHmare is clear: to develop a comprehensive concept for a high-speed, CO2-neutral marine engine using green methanol by the end of 2025. By combining Rolls-Royce’s expertise in propulsion systems, Woodward L’Orange’s advanced injection technology, and WTZ Roßlau’s research capabilities, the project has tackled one of the shipping industry’s most pressing challenges — transitioning from fossil fuels to sustainable alternatives without compromising performance.
Denise Kurtulus, Senior Vice President Global Marine at Rolls-Royce, emphasized the industry significance “With this successful test run, we are sending a clear signal: green methanol is a future-oriented fuel — and the technology for it is here. The single-fuel methanol engine is an attractive solution, especially for operators of ferries, yachts, or supply vessels who want to reduce their carbon footprint. The task now is to create the framework conditions for wider use.”
The meOHmare project also includes research into dual-fuel engines, which can operate on both diesel and methanol. This bridging technology ensures a smooth transition for operators while green methanol production and infrastructure scale up globally.
A Game-Changer for the Maritime Industry
The successful testing of the high-speed methanol engine sends a strong signal to the global shipping sector: green methanol is no longer a distant concept — it’s operational reality. With maritime regulations tightening under the IMO 2050 targets for greenhouse gas reductions, shipping companies are under immense pressure to transition to low- and zero-carbon fuels. Rolls-Royce’s breakthrough addresses this challenge directly.
Key Industry Impacts:
- CO2-Neutral Propulsion: Methanol derived from renewable energy sources eliminates carbon emissions during operation, offering a realistic path to decarbonization for short- and medium-range vessels.
- Environmental Compliance: Methanol’s cleaner combustion significantly reduces nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and particulate emissions, helping operators meet increasingly strict global emissions regulations.
- Operational Flexibility: Rolls-Royce’s dual-fuel approach provides a transition pathway, allowing vessels to operate on methanol or diesel depending on fuel availability, infrastructure, and commercial considerations.
- Market Differentiation: Early adopters of methanol propulsion can position themselves as leaders in sustainable shipping, appealing to environmentally conscious charterers and investors.
Technical Innovation Highlights:
The development of a pure methanol engine demanded rethinking every aspect of traditional marine propulsion:
- Combustion Redesign: Unlike diesel, methanol requires advanced ignition systems due to its non-spontaneous combustion properties.
- Turbocharging & Engine Control Adaptation: Engine dynamics and control algorithms were recalibrated to optimize efficiency and emissions.
- Injection Technology: Woodward L’Orange’s precision injection systems were crucial to ensuring consistent fuel delivery and performance reliability.
- Test Infrastructure Upgrade: Rolls-Royce retrofitted its test benches to safely handle methanol, a flammable alcohol, under high-pressure, high-speed engine conditions.
Dr. Johannes Kech, Head of Methanol Engine Development, remarked, “The engine runs smoothly, demonstrating that high-speed, pure methanol propulsion is viable. This is not just a prototype — it’s the future of marine propulsion.”
Methanol: The Future Fuel for Shipping
Methanol is rapidly emerging as one of the most promising alternative fuels for maritime applications. Its appeal lies in a unique combination of environmental, operational, and practical advantages that make it ideal for the shipping industry’s decarbonization journey.
Why Methanol Matters:
- CO2-Neutral Potential: When produced via renewable energy in a power-to-X process, methanol can achieve net-zero carbon emissions, aligning with IMO 2050 and EU Fit for 55 decarbonization targets.
- Cleaner Combustion: Methanol significantly reduces sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter compared to conventional marine fuels, improving local air quality around ports and coastal areas.
- Storage and Handling Advantages: Unlike LNG, methanol can be stored in liquid form at ambient temperatures, simplifying logistics and minimizing infrastructure costs.
- Biodegradability and Safety: In the event of spillage, methanol poses less environmental risk than heavy fuel oil, making it safer for marine ecosystems.
Denise Kurtulus emphasized the operational advantages “For operators of ferries, yachts, or supply vessels, methanol offers a clean, efficient, and climate-friendly fuel solution — without compromising performance or safety.”
Methanol’s adoption also supports hybrid and transitional strategies, with dual-fuel engines allowing shipping companies to gradually shift from fossil fuels to fully renewable methanol. This flexibility reduces commercial and operational risk while signaling commitment to sustainability to stakeholders and investors.
Rolls-Royce: Leading the Sustainable Propulsion Revolution
Rolls-Royce’s innovation is not just about a single engine; it’s a strategic vision for the marine industry. With a global footprint across 48 countries and over 10,350 employees in its Power Systems division, Rolls-Royce is positioned to transform maritime propulsion through advanced, low-carbon technologies.
- Strategic Investment: Rolls-Royce is actively developing engines and systems that support the transition to carbon-neutral shipping, reinforcing its ‘lower carbon’ strategic pillar.
- Global Leadership: The meOHmare project, backed by the German Federal Ministry, signals Rolls-Royce’s intent to set industry-wide benchmarks for sustainable marine propulsion.
- Commercial Advantage: By offering both single-fuel methanol and dual-fuel solutions, Rolls-Royce enables shipping operators to adopt sustainable solutions without operational compromises, creating early-mover advantages in a rapidly evolving market.
The company’s multi-year transformation programme ensures financial resilience and technological agility, allowing it to deliver products and services that directly support the energy transition while maintaining high performance and reliability standards.
A Strategic Signal for the Shipping Industry
Rolls-Royce’s successful test of the world’s first high-speed pure methanol marine engine is more than a technological achievement; it is a clarion call for the entire maritime sector. As shipping faces growing regulatory pressure, rising environmental awareness, and investor demand for sustainable operations, this milestone demonstrates that climate-friendly propulsion is commercially viable today.
Key Takeaways for the Industry:
- Decarbonization is Tangible: Methanol engines provide a clear pathway for operators to reduce carbon emissions while maintaining operational efficiency.
- Hybrid Transition Solutions: Dual-fuel engines enable gradual adaptation, allowing fleets to shift to low-carbon fuels without disrupting existing operations or supply chains.
- Market Differentiation Through Sustainability: Early adoption of green methanol engines positions shipowners as leaders in environmental responsibility, improving chartering opportunities and investor confidence.
- Regulatory Alignment: Compliance with IMO’s emission reduction targets and emerging regional policies becomes feasible, mitigating regulatory risks.
Denise Kurtulus summarizes the industry impact succinctly “Certification is no longer optional; it’s the foundation of future-ready energy trade.”
By achieving this milestone, Rolls-Royce not only proves the technical feasibility of methanol propulsion but also sets a strategic precedent. It signals that independent technology providers, engine manufacturers, and ship operators can collectively drive the maritime sector toward a low-carbon, sustainable future.
The Path Forward: Methanol as a Core Future Fuel
With methanol engines ready for deployment, the next steps are clear:
- Scaling Production and Supply: Investment in green methanol production and bunkering infrastructure is essential for widespread adoption.
- Fleet Integration: Shipowners and operators must evaluate retrofitting or commissioning new methanol-powered vessels to maximize emissions reductions.
- Policy Support and Incentives: Governments and maritime regulators play a crucial role in creating frameworks that encourage sustainable fuel adoption while ensuring commercial viability.
The meOHmare project, supported by German authorities and a collaboration of industry leaders, highlights how public-private partnerships can accelerate decarbonization. Rolls-Royce’s engineering breakthrough, combined with operational scalability, provides a realistic roadmap for transitioning the global maritime fleet toward sustainable, CO2-neutral propulsion.
Conclusion
The successful testing of the world’s first high-speed pure methanol engine marks a turning point in marine propulsion. Rolls-Royce, in partnership with Woodward L’Orange and WTZ Roßlau, has demonstrated that clean, efficient, and climate-friendly shipping is no longer a distant goal — it’s here, now.
As the industry moves toward zero-emission shipping, this milestone signals a new era of innovation, responsibility, and strategic foresight. Methanol is emerging not just as an alternative fuel but as a cornerstone of the sustainable maritime economy.
The world is watching. The technology is ready. The transition begins.
About Rolls-Royce
Rolls-Royce is a global engineering powerhouse, powering, protecting, and connecting people across multiple industries. Headquartered in Friedrichshafen, Germany, Rolls-Royce Power Systems employs over 10,350 people and specializes in high-speed mtu-brand engines and propulsion systems for ships, heavy land, rail, defense vehicles, and the oil and gas sector. Its portfolio also includes diesel and gas systems, battery containers, combined heat and power solutions, and microgrids.
Rolls-Royce operates in 48 countries, serving customers in more than 100 nations, including airlines, armed forces, navies, and industrial clients. Through a multi-year transformation program, the company aims to build resilience, competitiveness, and support the global energy transition. In 2024, Rolls-Royce reported underlying revenues of £17.8 billion with an operating profit of £2.46 billion, and it is publicly traded on the LSE (RR.) and via ADR (RYCEY).
Source: Rolls-Royce