WinGD’s Compact Power Play: How Short-Stroke Engines Are Reshaping Container Shipping
The Future of Feeders
WinGD just locked in a deal that underscores a quiet revolution in maritime propulsion. The Swiss engine developer will supply two X-S short-stroke engines for X-Press Feeders’ new 2,800 TEU container vessels, built by HD Hyundai Mipo. These aren’t just any engines—they’re six-cylinder, 62-bore X-S series units, engineered to squeeze maximum efficiency into minimal space. For an industry under pressure to cut costs and emissions, WinGD’s design might be the blueprint for the next generation of feeder ships.
“The X-S series isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a rethinking of what medium-bore engines can do.”
Efficiency by the Numbers
The X-S series replaces WinGD’s RT-flex50 and RT-flex58 models, offering a ~4% fuel efficiency boost—a critical edge as shipping grapples with volatile fuel prices and tightening regulations. Available in 52- and 62-bore sizes, these engines support everything from diesel to future-proof options like LNG, methanol, and ammonia. But the real magic lies in their compact design: a simplified cylinder block, smaller components, and a 15% shorter length than long-stroke counterparts. That means more flexible vessel layouts and easier maintenance—a win for shipbuilders and operators alike.
Cleaner, Sooner
Scheduled for delivery in late 2026, the 6X62-S2.0 engines will come equipped with high-pressure selective catalytic reduction (SCR) units to slash NOx emissions. It’s a strategic move as the International Maritime Organization’s Tier III standards loom larger. By integrating SCR directly, WinGD sidesteps the need for bulky aftertreatment systems, preserving precious cargo space. For X-Press Feeders, which operates in emission-sensitive regions like Europe, this could be a game-changer.
“Short-stroke isn’t just about size—it’s about reimagining the entire value chain, from fuel savings to maintenance hours.”
As the maritime industry inches toward decarbonization, WinGD’s deal signals a shift: the era of one-size-fits-all propulsion is over. For feeder vessels, where every cubic meter counts, the X-S series might just be the perfect fit.
