WinGD, a Swiss marine power company, has unveiled its first high-pressure liquefied natural gas (LNG) dual-fuel engine, the X-DF-HP.
Showcased at Marintec China 2025, the engine targets applications in ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs).
The X-DF-HP will be available in X82 and X92 bore sizes, with deliveries expected to begin in 2028.
According to WinGD, the introduction of the X-DF-HP comes as shipowners face a shifting regulatory environment, with the International Maritime Organization’s Net Zero Framework currently on hold and regional rules becoming more varied.
WinGD noted that the X-DF-HP is made for the operational requirements of ULCVs and is expected to provide improved efficiency compared with established diesel engines and similar dual-fuel designs.
The new engine uses auxiliary systems, including fuel supply pressure, that are similar to those required by other well-known engine models. This is intended to simplify installation for shipyards.
WinGD market development vice president Benny Hilstrom said: “Large container vessels present a unique propulsion challenge. They demand immense power, exceptional efficiency and long-term fuel flexibility.
“With the X-DF-HP, we are providing operators with a purpose-built solution for the most power-hungry vessels, offering uncompromised, trouble-free propulsion.”
The X-DF-HP is said to achieve Tier III compliance in both gas and diesel modes using only a standard selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system.
According to WinGD, this engine offers operators an option that addresses the needs of large container vessels.
The X-DF-HP extends WinGD’s high-pressure, multi-fuel portfolio, which also features engines designed for methanol, ethanol, or ammonia operation.
Existing engines such as the X92-B can be retrofitted for high-pressure LNG or other alternative fuels as industry requirements change.
WinGD said that LNG use allows for FuelEU Maritime compliance through the next decade and points out that both its low-pressure X-DF and high-pressure X-DF-HP engines are compatible with renewable methane blends.
This compatibility is expected assist operators looking to reduce carbon emissions without significant mechanical changes or costly retrofits.
WinGD research and development vice president Sebastian Hensel said: “The X-DF-HP is built on the high-pressure Diesel X92-B engine platform that has already proven itself as one of the most efficient and reliable large-bore solutions in the container segment.
“Building on our long-standing diesel engine expertise and our deep experience in LNG dual-fuel technology, we’ve developed the X‑DF‑HP.”
In October this year, WinGD announced plans to launch its first ethanol-fuelled two-stroke marine engine in 2026, with initial deliveries scheduled for 2027.
