Spotlight: MTU 10V 2000 M96L marine engine

The 10V 2000 M96L engine is the 10-cylinder version of the Series 2000 M96L marine engine range that also comes in 12- and 16-cylinder versions, and is paired with a ZF 2050 gearbox.

The V10 version has significant relevance to the Australian market, as it powers the Maritimo M75 flybridge motor yacht, the largest model built by the Gold Coast-based luxury motor yacht brand, the S75 sedan, and M600 and S600 Offshore models.

The MTU 10V 2000 M96L was launched in 2016 with the aim of powering a new generation of 50-foot sports fishing boats that was sweeping the US market at the time.

According to MTU, the 10V 2000 M96L was developed to offer enhanced acceleration characteristics, quiet operation and low fuel use. Performance is rated to anywhere between 1300hp and 1600hp depending on the boat’s needs. It also features a more compact form, yielding more engine room workspace and packaging options.

The engine is rated to meet the EPA’s Tier 3 emissions standards. It uses 24 volts with the alternator able to generate 80 amps at running speed.

The engine uses a heat exchange system so that seawater does not come in contact with the engine’s and exhaust’s cooling systems.

Its wide torque band comes from sequential turbocharging via three exhaust gas turbochargers.

Of note, the engine is also compatible with MTU’s joystick system that gives a motor yacht much more precise and controlled maneuvering at low speeds.

Maritimo said it settled on the MTU engine to give owners a purpose-built marine power unit with real-time back-to-base monitoring service anywhere around the globe.

It said MTU’s engines were all continuously rated, giving Maritimo owners the unlimited ability to operate at 100 percent load, providing more power and torque at any time.

MTU engines come with a two-year warranty with the option of extending the warranty by another two years. Maintenance and servicing is carried out via agriculture, construction, mining, rail, defence and marine power systems specialist Penske Australia.

MTU’s engine packages are provided through Penske Australia & New Zealand with an extensive network of 16 strategically located branches supported by remote field service locations.

Maritimo has flagged it will use MTU engines in “select future models” that it is yet to announce.