Sanlorenzo and MAN team up to develop first yacht with bi-fuel engine

At the Blue Innovation Dock at boot Düsseldorf 2025, Sanlorenzo presented the innovative project developed in partnership with MAN 

The goal of the project is to create the first bi-fuel eco-friendly propulsion working on diesel and methanol, which will be installed on the new 50-metre Sanlorenzo X-Space yacht. The project is part of “Road to 2030” strategy, aimed at reducing environmental impact. In accordance with this plan, Sanlorenzo set itself a goal of developing the first carbon-neutral yacht by the end of the decade, supported by strategic partnerships with international players. 

In 2024 Sanlorenzo has already made good progress towards this goal and launched two innovative models. One of them is the 50-metre Sanlorenzo 50Steel, which is the world’s first yacht equipped with a green methanol Fuel Cell system, capable of converting methanol into hydrogen and then into electricity to power onboard hotellerie systems. The second one is the BGH-HSV (Hydrogen Support Vessel) produced by Bluegame brand, which belongs to Sanlorenzo. She was designed as a chase boat to support two challenger teams in the America’s Cup. The vessel can reach speeds of 50 knots and boasts a range of 180 miles. 

The decision to use methanol for bi-fuel engine propulsion was determined by the fact that this fuel is one of the most promising alternatives for the future of maritime transport. Methanol is biodegradable, safe to handle and liquid at ambient temperature. It does not require any dedicated infrastructure, only some adaptation of existing facilities: it is already available in over 100 ports worldwide. 

The premiere of the bi-fuel Sanlorenzo 50 X-Space yacht is scheduled for 2027. Her propulsion will include two diesel MAN engines and two four-stroke diesel generators by Nanni Industries, adapted to operate on a green methanol/diesel bi-fuel combination. Sanlorenzo will be responsible for adapting the yacht’s design to the new system.