MOL to invest in UK startup’s engine technology that improves fuel efficiency

Japan’s shipping major Mitsui O.S.K Lines (MOL) has revealed plans to invest in UK-based startup Carnot and its engine technology that is expected to improve fuel efficiency by up to 40%.

In a project led by MOL (Europe Africa), Carnot is developing engine technology that eliminates energy loss during the cooling process and increases thermal and fuel efficiency by using highly heat-resistant materials.

According to MOL, the engine now under development by Carnot has the potential to improve fuel efficiency by 20%-40% compared to conventional engines.

Based on the results of demonstration tests and the feasibility of this technology, MOL said it will consider applying it to its fleet of merchant vessels in the future.

The investment in Carnot aligns with MOL’s “BLUE ACTION 2035” management plan which seeks to achieve sustainable growth that contributes to social issues and addresses environmental issues.

Through this investment, the shipping company aims to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and pursue economic efficiency in its operated vessels, and also contribute to GHG reductions in the shipping industry and other industries that rely on internal combustion engines.

Carnot has been selected for the fourth consecutive year for the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition, co-sponsored by the UK Government’s Department for Transport and UK Research and Innovation, to support initiatives on decarbonization in the maritime sector.

In 2023, the startup partnered with UK-based shipping company Carisbrooke Shipping to develop a zero-emission hydrogen auxiliary engine demonstrator. Following design, simulations, and testing, the single-fuel hydrogen 50kW engine will be integrated into a containerized system and mounted on the deck of one of Carisbrooke’s cargo vessels for a 40-day sea trial in early 2025 to partially supply electrical power to the vessel.