Singapore’s ferry operator teams up with Rolls-Royce on hybrid and renewable fuels

Singapore-based ferry operator Majestic Fast Ferry and marine propulsion specialist Rolls-Royce have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work on engines and propulsion systems that are able to run on hybrid and renewable fuels such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). 

Under the MOU, Rolls-Royce will continue partnering Majestic Fast Ferry to ensure ferry services are as sustainable as possible. The event also commemorated the ferry operator’s 100th mtu engine purchased since 2016 from Rolls-Royce Solutions Asia, a subsidiary of the Power Systems division of Rolls-Royce.

Majestic Fast Ferry uses mtu Series 2000 engines, with the 100th unit being the 16V 2000 M72 with a power output of 1,440 kW. The company ants to ensure clean, energy-efficient sailings for its current fleet of eleven ferries, fitted with mtu propulsion systems.  

“In a world where challenges are complex and interconnected and resources limited, collaboration becomes imperative. Through this MOU, we pledge to leverage our respective strengths, resources, and networks to drive innovation, foster sustainable development, and create positive impact in our communities and beyond,” President of Global Markets Rolls-Royce Power Systems and Managing Director of Rolls-Royce Solutions Asia, Giovanni Spadaro said.

“Majestic Fast Ferry is currently 30% more fuel-efficient compared to our competitors. We are proud of this progress, as we continue to reduce emissions in our operations. We will certainly continue to assess and review our fuel strategy and ensure we remain at the forefront of efficiency and decarbonization,” Managing Director of Majestic Fast Ferry, Max Tan stated.

Majestic Fast Ferry started with one ferry in December 2014, growing to 1.3 million passengers in 2023. 

In 2023, as Batam grew in popularity for domestic travel, Majestic Fast Ferry started using mtu-powered vessels for its high-speed catamaran service, making it possible to serve the route more efficiently in comparison to using slower, traditional monohulled vessels.

Last year, Rolls-Royce conducted tests of a 12-cylinder gas variant of the mtu engines running on 100% hydrogen fuel, marking a step towards the commercial introduction of hydrogen solutions. With green hydrogen, these mtu engines are expected to be able to operate in a CO2-neutral manner in the future. 

The tests of a 12-cylinder gas variant of the mtu Series 4000 L64 engined powered by pure hydrogen were carried out by the Power Systems business unit.