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SEPTEMBER 2026
R
olls-Royce is expanding its 
range of variable-speed mtu 
generator sets with standard-
ized gensets based on the Series 2000, 
improving power density and efficien-
cy. The gensets adjust their engine 
speed to match actual power demand, 
thereby reducing fuel consumption 
and CO₂ emissions during operation 
by up to 15 percent compared to 
fixed-speed units. At the same time, 
they operate about 6 dB quieter than 
conventional units.
Longer intervals between overhauls 
(TBO) and lower maintenance costs 
ensure high cost-effectiveness over the 
entire life cycle. Their compact design 
and high-power density make the gen-
erator sets particularly attractive for 
vessels with limited space and weight 
constraints, such as passenger ferries, 
crew boats, yachts, and patrol boats.
The new standardized, variable-speed 
generator set, with an operating speed 
range of approximately 1,200 to 2,450 
rpm depending on the engine type, and 
an electrical output of 650 to 1,850 kWe, 
offers optimal adaptation to different 
load profiles — also making it ideal for 
modern, battery-powered marine appli-
cations and as a range extender.
The new product is based on Rolls-
Royce’s decades of experience with 
diesel-electric propulsion systems. Nu-
merous workboats already have vari-
able-speed mtu gensets based on the 
Series 4000 on board, and many yachts 
benefit from diesel-electric propulsion 
systems based on the Series 2000.
The role of gensets on ships has 
evolved and is no longer limited to 
propulsion and auxiliary operations. 
On battery-powered ships, they serve 
as an emergency power source for 
propulsion, and on hybrid ships, they 
extend the range and act as boosters.
“Even ships with battery- or elec-
tric-powered main propulsion systems 
benefit from the reliability and effi-
ciency of mtu’s variable-speed gensets. 
In combination with our modern mtu 
internal combustion engines, which 
can run on sustainable fuels, they 
support the trend toward ship electri-
fication and the maritime energy tran-
sition,” said Lukas Köhler, senior vice 
president of Global Marine & Mining 
at Rolls-Royce Power Systems.
MEMBER NEWS
Rolls-Royce Expands Propulsion Portfolio  
of Variable-Speed Gen Sets

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