With the launch of the “V12X,” Man Engines expands its range of hybrid marine engines for large yachts. Delivering more than 2,200 horsepower, it reaffirms the German manufacturer’s position as a technological benchmark in marine electrification
MAN Engines is broadening its portfolio of hybrid propulsion systems for the marine sector by unveiling the new 30-liter “V12X,” integrated into the modular MAN Smart Hybrid Experience system, at the 2025 Cannes Yachting Festival. The new model significantly raises the available power range, reaching outputs of over 2,000 kilowatts per powertrain, and opens up new opportunities for use on large yachts and high-intensity applications where performance, comfort, and reliability are essential.
Developed from an entirely new base design, the “V12X” introduces advanced technical features such as a common-rail injection system operating at a pressure of 2,200 bar, optimized cooling and lubrication management, and a torque curve superior to previous units. The engine delivers a maximum output of 1,618 kilowatts (2,200 horsepower) while maintaining nearly the same dimensions and weight as the existing 24-liter “V12” engines — a characteristic that simplifies integration both in new projects and retrofit applications.
When combined with an electric motor rated at 200 or 400 kilowatts, various operating configurations become possible, increasing system flexibility to cover a wide range of scenarios — from zero-emission navigation in protected areas to boost mode, where the combined diesel-electric thrust delivers maximum performance.
The MAN Smart Hybrid Experience is designed as a fully integrated solution, including the combustion engine, electric motor, high-voltage batteries, power electronics, cooling system, and control unit — simplifying the shipyard’s work and ensuring a unified interface. The battery operates at 600 volts, with a DC link voltage between 660 and 780 volts, allowing for fast energy transfers, efficient recharging, and sufficient reserves to handle power surges while providing good range in full-electric mode and significantly reducing onboard noise.
Operating modes include full-electric navigation for short distances, diesel-electric operation to power onboard utilities, a hybrid cruising mode with separate system management, and traditional navigation with battery-charging capability to maximize operational independence.
From an application standpoint, the modular hybrid platform developed by MAN allows hybridization levels up to 35% of total power, making it compatible with the most common transmission configurations in the marine industry. Bench tests and trials on workboats have confirmed the system’s robustness — particularly regarding thermal stability, long-term durability, and functional integration of all components — ensuring high reliability even under the most demanding conditions.
Rounding out the offer, the internal-combustion engine can be fueled with renewable fuels compliant with current standards, significantly reducing CO₂ emissions and offering an immediate step toward more sustainable navigation.
The V12X Hybrid thus becomes the flagship of MAN’s yacht engine lineup, which already includes six-, eight-, and twelve-cylinder solutions from 12 to 24 liters combined with 200- or 400-kilowatt electric motors. With available power now exceeding 2,000 kilowatts, MAN Engines firmly positions itself as a technological leader in marine electrification.
Title: Man hybrid engine for boats: with the new V12X, power increases
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