WinGD is moving forward with the construction of its first ethanol-powered two-stroke marine engine. Aiming to open for formal orders in 2026, with scheduled deliveries available from 2027 for both new builds and retrofits.
Two-stroke ethanol marine engine technology
The new propulsion system will be developed on the basis of the X-DF-M engineengine, originally designed for methanol. The ethanol version will integrate specific adjustments to the injection and control system, adapting to the higher energy density of ethanol. This modification will maintain the efficiency and reliability characteristic of WinGD’s dual engines.
Since 2014, WinGD has invested in the study of ethanol as a renewable marine fuel, participating in initiatives such as the EU-funded HERCULES 2 project. In 2018, they conducted large-scale tests, consolidating the technical feasibility of ethanol for high-powered engines.
Ethanol shares with methanol a clean combustion profile, suitable for compliance with future international emissions regulations. Moreover, it can be obtained from biomass, which represents an advantage over polluting fuels.
WinGD develops technology, and also participates as a founding member of the Global Ethanol Partnership, promoting synergies between biofuel producers, marine operators and regulatory bodies.
The company will announce in the coming months whether its new design will be optimized exclusively for ethanol or whether it will be adapted to a dual methanol-compatible configuration. In either case, the goal is to maintain performance comparable to current engines, with lower emissions and greater sustainability.
Source and photo: WinGD