MAN spearheads ammonia engine project

This innovative programme aims to create the world’s first dual-fuel, four-stroke GenSet engine capable of running entirely on ammonia, without the need for pilot fuel.

“We support the energy transition and are always happy to work with like-minded industry partners,” said Jarl Klüssmann, NH3 Spark Project Manager. “This project brings together a unique constellation of collaborators with different competencies, and I am confident we will deliver practicable results.”

Spearheaded by MAN’s Holeby site, the consortium includes the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) and renewable energy firm Skovgaard Energy. The project consists of four phases, beginning with ammonia testing on a single-cylinder MAN GenSet at DTU’s engine lab in Q3 2025. Full-scale tests will follow at Skovgaard’s green ammonia facility.

MAN’s focus is on a small-bore engine that balances simplicity, affordability and retrofit capability, key features for the 20,000+ MAN GenSets already in operation. The ‘FutureFlex’ name reflects its broader potential for use with other low-emission fuels.

“This project has the potential to create a new niche for the well-proven oil-fuelled engine,” said Warley Thomsen, senior R&D specialist at MAN. “It offers shipowners a flexible, eco-friendly retrofit option compatible with various future fuels.”

Industry leaders including DFDS, Hafnia and the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping have pledged support, with a classification society expected to join soon.