Rolls-Royce has announced two significant agreements aimed at bolstering its yacht refit services and expanding its propulsion systems offerings. The company’s Power Systems division has signed a framework agreement with Bremen-based Lürssen Yacht Refit & Services, a prominent German shipyard known for constructing some of the world’s largest yachts, many of which are equipped with mtu propulsion systems from Rolls-Royce.
This collaboration focuses on the overhaul of mtu propulsion systems, enhancing service delivery for yacht customers. Lürssen not only specializes in new builds but also offers extensive refit solutions, encompassing the overhaul, modernization, and conversion of yachts that can reach lengths of nearly 200 meters. These refit services present yacht owners with opportunities to upgrade their propulsion systems with cutting-edge technologies that promote sustainable maritime operations.
Rolls-Royce and Lürssen have a history of cooperation in maintaining mtu propulsion systems, which includes everything from the engines to the mtu NautIQ ship automation system. The new framework agreement aims to streamline their collaboration, hastening processes, simplifying procedures, and establishing unified standards, which both companies believe will significantly decrease the duration of overhaul tasks.
Moreover, the agreement ensures that Rolls-Royce specialists can be deployed more swiftly and flexibly at the shipyard, enhancing spare parts availability. Lürssen technicians will receive specialized training to perform specific tasks on mtu engines, adhering to Rolls-Royce’s rigorous standards. This training is expected to expedite the refit process, ultimately facilitating a quicker handover of the yachts to their owners.
In a related development, Rolls-Royce has entered into a four-year framework agreement with the Azimut Benetti Group, a leading manufacturer of megayachts over 24 meters. This partnership focuses on providing mtu diesel engines and the integration of mtu propulsion systems for the Azimut Grande Series, which includes models up to 30 meters long.
Upcoming models in the Azimut Grande Series will feature comprehensive, ready-to-install propulsion systems that comprise mtu Series 2000 engines, ZF pod drives, and the mtu NautIQ marine automation system. This collaboration will also extend to a variety of services, with ongoing discussions about delivering integrated bridge solutions for the Grande Series.
The integrated pod drive solution for the Azimut Grande 30M will include mtu 12V2000M96 engines producing 1,342 kW and ZF 4900 variant pod drives. The complete drivetrain will also integrate the mtu NautIQ Blue Vision NG marine automation system alongside the ZF control system, ensuring efficient monitoring and control of the propulsion system.
Azimut Benetti Group plans to increasingly equip its new megayachts with mtu propulsion systems, combining mtu diesel engines with conventional transmissions and advanced automation technologies. Rolls-Royce anticipates delivering the first propulsion package this year, enabling Azimut to launch its first yachts featuring the mtu drivetrain as early as 2025.
Related topics:
