Everllence has signed a framework agreement with Damen Shipyards Group, the Dutch shipbuilder, covering the serial supply of Everllence's 175D engine. The agreement establishes a long-term partnership between the two companies for the delivery of high-speed engines for Damen's Fuel Flexible tug programme, as well as other applications, well into the future. Everllence is the company formerly known as MAN Energy Solutions, which adopted its new name in 2025 following its separation from the MAN Group.

Damen is the world's largest producer of harbour and escort tugs built to a standard, pre-defined design on a serial basis, which enables reduced vessel-delivery times for tug operators. Its Fuel Flexible tug portfolio sets a forward-looking benchmark for operators seeking to maintain today's competitiveness while preparing for future fuel and new regulatory requirements. That positioning reflects the broader direction of international shipping regulation, with the IMO's greenhouse gas reduction strategy calling for progressively lower emissions from the world fleet in the coming decades, and the EU having brought shipping into its Emissions Trading System from 2024 — developments that are pushing operators and shipbuilders across segments to plan propulsion around multiple fuel options.

By selecting Everllence's 175D engine for its new series of tug designs, Damen has chosen a proven, high-speed engine that combines highly efficient operation with robust reliability. The engine's flexible and modular design also supports Damen's long-term fuel strategy: the tugs are prepared not only for diesel operation and the use of 100% biofuel, which is already available today, but also for future dual-fuel methanol operation, either as newbuilds or through retrofit. Methanol has been gaining traction as a marine fuel in other shipping segments, with dual-fuel methanol vessels already in service in container shipping, though tugs — which typically operate close to port and in emissions-control areas — face their own operational considerations. This makes the 175D a strong fit for highly efficient, reliable and future-proof tug propulsion.

Erik van Schaik, Product Manager Tugs at Damen, said: "For our next generation of fuel-flexible tugs, Damen selected Everllence's 175D engine because it offers the right combination of compact power-density, proven performance, and availability within the required development timeline. This choice supports our ambition to bring future-ready tug designs to market quickly, while continuing to value the strong relationships we have built with our engine partners across our wider portfolio."

Ben Andres, Vice President and Head of Medium & High-Speed Four-Stroke Marine at Everllence, said: "The signing of this framework agreement with Damen represents an important strategic step for Everllence and establishes a long-term collaboration with one of the world's leading builders of harbour and escort tugs. It highlights the industry's increasing demand for propulsion solutions that combine proven performance with a clear pathway towards alternative fuels. Together with Damen, we are enabling operators to invest in vessels that meet today's requirements while being prepared for the fuel landscape of tomorrow."

Source: Everllence, via Hellenic Shipping News