Japan Engine Corporation (J-ENG) has begun development of a methanol-fuelled marine engine, designated UEC50LSJM, with completion targeted within fiscal year 2027, the company said.

The Japanese engine manufacturer completed its first ammonia-fuelled engine, the 7UEC50LSJA, in August and is also developing a hydrogen-fuelled model, the 6UEC35LSGH. J-ENG said the experience gained from these projects will be applied to the development of the methanol engine.

According to the company, methanol has the potential to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs), sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. The fuel remains liquid at ambient temperature and pressure, which J-ENG said simplifies handling compared with some other alternative fuels.

J-ENG added that methanol engines are expected to be suitable for a range of vessel types, including medium- and small-sized ships. The company also pointed to the longer-term potential of green methanol derived from biomass and renewable energy to deliver further emissions reductions.

The development is part of J-ENG's strategy to introduce various alternative-fuel engines to the market. According to the company, these efforts aim to support Japan's shipping and shipbuilding industries while contributing to the sector's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

J-ENG is positioning itself as a first mover in next-generation fuel-engine development, with methanol joining ammonia and hydrogen in its alternative-fuel engine portfolio.