Development and impact of the evsp: an intelligent propulsion system for safe, sustainable and efficient navigation

This paper introduces and explores the development of the Electric Voith Schneider Propeller (eVSP) as an evolution of the well-recognized mechanical version (VSP) patented almost 100 years ago (1926). This study highlights the extraordinary technological contribution of Voith’s Maritime Division R&D department, which aims to encourage and promote reliable and efficient solutions for the improvement of the maritime industry regarding the concepts of digitalization, electrification and decarbonization based on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) goal of driving a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Throughout the document, different perspectives will be presented in order to represent the original system concept and its evolution, seeing several technological considerations, the impact of the solution in Latin America and the potential applications in the region due to the technical advantages of this propulsion system especially for rough navigation and operational conditions reflecting the environmental contribution in terms of fuel consumption, energy savings, low emission and noise and high efficiency related on the operational life cycle cost impact.