Rolls-Royce and the Singapore Institute of Technology have entered into a collaboration to develop technologies to enhance electronic monitoring and fleet management for autonomous vessels.
The aim is to improve ships with hybrid and electric propulsion systems and entire fleets in terms of availability, fuel consumption and emissions by further developing the automation solution.
The multi-purpose patrol craft MPA Guardian of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore will be used as the test vessel. The hybrid vessel will be fitted with an equipment health management system to collect data and optimise operations.
“We see the joint research project as an important step in the further development of autonomous ships and ships with hybrid technologies, said Kevin Daffey, Senior Vice President of Mobile Automation at Rolls-Royce Power Systems.
"Singapore, as a centre for sustainable shipping, is the ideal location for this outstanding project, with all the progressive institutions we are partnering with here.
"We are thus promoting the reduction of CO2 emissions and supporting our customers with digital systems and even better service in line with our strategic goals."