The Methanol Megapower Era Begins: MAN’s 82,440 kW Engine Sets Sail in 2025

Shipping’s Green Giant

In June 2025, the maritime industry will witness a landmark moment: MAN Energy Solutions delivers the world’s most powerful two-stroke methanol engine, the MAN B&W 12G95ME-C10.5-LGIM. Rated at a staggering 82,440 kW at 80 rpm, this colossus isn’t just breaking records—it’s redefining what’s possible for carbon-neutral shipping. Built by Chinese licensee CSSC-MES Diesel Co., Ltd. (CMD), the engine is the first of 12 units destined for a fleet of 24,000 TEU container vessels, marking methanol’s ascent as a mainstream fuel.

“Methanol isn’t a future fuel—it’s the present. With over 600,000 hours of methanol-only operation, we’re past the proof-of-concept phase,” says Bjarne Foldager, Senior Vice President at MAN Energy Solutions.

The Fleet Behind the Tech

Seven of these vessels are under construction at Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering Co., Ltd. (NACKS) for Orient Overseas Container Line Ltd. (OOCL), with five more at Dalian COSCO KHI Ship Engineering Co., Ltd. (DACKS) for COSCO Shipping Lines. Each engine integrates MAN’s proprietary EGRTC emissions system—the largest two-string exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) setup ever deployed on a two-stroke engine. This isn’t just about power; it’s about cleaning up an industry responsible for nearly 3% of global CO2 emissions.

10 Years of Methanol Mastery

MAN’s ME-LGIM technology, now a decade old, boasts over 230 references across newbuilds and retrofits. Green methanol, derived from renewable sources, enables carbon-neutral propulsion without costly infrastructure overhauls. Christian Ludwig, Head of R&D, notes, “The industry isn’t just betting on methanol—it’s hedging with multi-fuel futures. Our engines are the bridge.”

“Zero-emission solutions require zero-compromise engineering. This engine proves both can coexist,” adds Ludwig.

As 2025 approaches, the message is clear: the age of megapower methanol has arrived—and it’s here to stay.