ZF and Rolls-Royce Power Systems are now expanding their long-standing partnership in marine propulsion systems to include pod propulsion packages in the power range up to 1,250kW (1,700hp), and later also up to 1,470kW (2,000hp), based on ZF’s POD models and mtu Series 2000 engines.
Federico Decio, Head of Business Unit Marine & Special Driveline Technology at ZF, says: “We know that shipbuilders around the world count on ZF to bring performance, efficiency, and reliability to a growing variety of vessels. And that’s exactly what we have achieved with the new ZF POD Propulsion systems.”
“Our strategic goal is to offer our customers integrated, highly efficient solutions in the yacht market – from bridge to propeller. This includes our bridge solutions, automation and crew assistance systems, mtu engines, mtu hybrid systems, and now pod drives,” said Denise Kurtulus, Vice President Global Marine, Rolls-Royce Business Unit Power Systems.
The duo offers this integrated solution to provide a better yachting experience with easier manoeuvrability and space and efficiency gains. Propulsion efficiency can be increased by up to 15 percent with the ZF/Rolls-Royce combined solution, significantly reducing the carbon footprint. Compared to conventional fixed propeller drives, the yacht’s manoeuvrability can be significantly improved.
The new systems will be offered for series-production yachts up to around 30m in length with a top speed of up to 32kt, and for workboats such as crew transfer vessels. New projects are being developed in close cooperation between ZF, Rolls-Royce with its Italian-based Yacht Competence Center and yacht manufacturers.
"We know that shipbuilders around the world count on ZF to bring performance, efficiency, and reliability to a growing variety of vessels. And that’s exactly what we have achieved with the new ZF POD Propulsion systems." – ZF's Federico Decio, Head of Business Unit Marine & Special Driveline Technology
