BMW Car Engine to Become a Marine Outboard

BMW’s twin turbo, three-liter diesel engine may soon be taking to the water.

A pilot study looking for ways to convert the popular car engine for marine use is being carried out by product development specialist Semcon in cooperation with engine manufacturer Cimco Marine.

Together, the firms seek to modify and adapt BMW’s three-liter turbo diesel engine for professional marine use, producing the world’s first three-liter diesel outboard engine with an output in excess of 200 horsepower.

As part of the project’s next phase, which is expected to begin shortly, the partners hope to produce a prototype for in-water testing after the summer. If all goes according to plan, full production could begin by 2020.

“This engine offers major potential for the marine environment,” said Henrik Einarsson, technical project manager at Semcon, the company handling the project’s design work, calculation and simulation.

“High output and outstanding quality are important features for many people operating professionally, such as people running working boats and fast recreational boats,” Einarsson continued. “The enormous forces involved advance engineering – and are really good fun.”

Semcon’s partner in the project, Cimco Marine, has spent a number of years developing OXE Diesel, the world’s first diesel outboard engine in the higher output range. The firm has seen global demand for its patented engine to propeller power transfer solutions.

Cimco Marine CEO, Cecilia Anderberg, said, “The outcome of the pilot study is extremely positive. We have worked together with Semcon to identify what measures are needed for us to embark upon the next phase. This gives us every chance of taking the project to the next level.”