Everllence runs research engine on 100% hydrogen

The first 100% H2 engine, a single-cylinder 35/44DF H2 engine, was successfully commissioned at Everllence’s Augsburg site in late-2025 and has already run on 100% hydrogen. [Photo: Everllence]

Taking a further step towards the development of CO2-neutral propulsion systems, Everllence has successfully upgraded a research-engine test bench at its Augsburg, Germany, site to enable hydrogen combustion.

The single-cylinder 35/44DF H2 four-stroke engine has already run on 100% hydrogen.

The research is being carried out under the umbrella of the HydroPoLEn project, an Everllence partnership with industry leaders and research institutes. The project is supported by funding from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy within the framework of its maritime research program.

“We are still at an early stage in terms of developing a complete propulsion solution for the market, but this news augurs well for the future,” said Dr Cornelius Wagner, HydroPoLEn project manager. “Hydrogen poses significant challenges for engine operation and requires optimal adaption of safety systems and components for it to reach maximum potential. With these key challenges now addressed, hydrogen is moving closer to becoming a long-term solution for the defossilization of passenger ships.”

HydroPoLEn is focused on creating sustainable propulsion solutions for the maritime sector, addressing the urgent need for environmentally-friendly technologies in global shipping. Based on investigations, the project has designed and successfully tested a combustion process, mechanical components and parts specifically for hydrogen operation. In particular, the newly developed combustion process enables a significant increase in power density under hydrogen operation.

Project partners include Everllence, WTZ, NMA at the Technical University of Munich, and Tenneco, with Carnival Maritime acting as associated partner.

Dedicated hydrogen infrastructure has been set up alongside the project in Augsburg, representing a significant milestone for the site. This infrastructure not only supports current research but also positions Augsburg as a key hub for developing future technologies.

“In the race for future propulsion technologies in the maritime sector, hydrogen has a decisive role to play alongside ammonia and methanol,” said Dr Matthias Auer, head of performance & emissions, four-stroke R&D at Everllence. “Since no single technology will likely prove optimal for all applications in the foreseeable future, companies must remain flexible and evaluate all options. Hydrogen will be an essential consideration in this context.”

“With HydroPoLEn, we are taking another, major step forward toward climate‑neutral maritime transportation,” said Dr Alexander Knafl, senior vice president R&D four-stroke at Everllence. “Our hydrogen engine demonstrates that ingenious engineering is a key element for sustainable, carbon-free propulsion, providing the foundation for the next generation of marine mobility. We are extremely proud to drive forward solutions that unite environmental responsibility with strong industrial innovation.”