The Life Mystic project aims to revolutionise the marine propulsion sector with the introduction of dual fuel engines and generators for superyachts, able to work on both diesel and methanol. This innovation not only aims to improve energy efficiency, but also to meet the growing demands for environmental sustainability imposed by the International Maritime Organisation’s regulations.

The use of green methanol as a marine fuel is particularly promising. Thanks to its clean combustion and favourable ecological profile, methanol presents itself as a viable alternative to diesel fuel. Biodegradable and non-toxic to the marine environment, methanol significantly reduces its environmental impact, facilitating an ecological breakthrough in the maritime sector.

Recognised for its economic and energy competitiveness compared to other low-emission fuels, methanol requires only minor modifications to existing infrastructure and engines, making the transition more accessible. In this context, the project involves the development of two MAN high-speed 4-stroke bi-fuel diesel engines specifically for a Sanlorenzo  superyacht and two four-stroke diesel generators, manufactured by Nanni Industries.

In collaboration with ScandiNaos and MAN, the project aims to create a bi-fuel adaptation kit that can facilitate the transition from conventional to dual-fuel engines, while ensuring reliability and high performance. The engine chosen for this innovation is the MAN D2862 – V12, with a displacement of 24 litres and IMO TIER III compliant, thanks to the already integrated SCR system.

Life Mystic’s future perspectives do not stop here; the study could also extend to other engines in the MAN High Speed Engines range, paving the way for further developments in the field of sustainability.

During the last Genoa Boat Show, the project caught the attention of visitors, who were able to admire not only the ‘clean’ engines already in the MAN range, the Smart Hybrid System and the Dual Fuel Hydrogen Engine, but also a preview of the Dual Fuel Methanol project.

Life Mystic thus represents an important step towards a more sustainable future for the maritime industry, demonstrating that innovation can be effectively combined with environmental protection.

The results of the Project will be

reduction in greenhouse gas emissions: 150 t/y CO2eq
reduction in fossil primary energy consumption: 700 MWh/y
reduction in air quality contamination: 630 kg/yv

Reference: LIFE23-ENV-IT-LIFE MYSTIC/ 101148420
Acronym: LIFE23-ENV-IT-LIFE MYSTIC
Total Costs: 4.817.889,00
Total EU Contribution: 2.890.733,40