DNV greenlights ABB’s all-electric marine propulsion concept

Classification society DNV on Thursday (8 January) said it has granted Approval in Principle to ABB Dynafin™, an innovative all-electric marine propulsion concept that mimics a whale’s tail to deliver higher efficiency, lower energy consumption, and reduced emissions compared to conventional propulsion systems.

ABB Dynafin™ has been designed to use an electric motor to drive a horizontal wheel at the vessel’s stern which is mounted with vertical blades. 

This results in a combined motion that mimics the movement of a whale’s tail, establishing new levels of propulsive efficiency. With each blade adjusting its angle powered by its own dedicated high-torque, permanent-magnet motor and control unit, thrust and directional control happen at the same time without the need for mechanical gearboxes.

“We are pleased to grant AiP for ABB Dynafin™, based on our assessment of the entire propulsion concept, including its electrical and control systems”, said Øystein Åsheim Alnes, Head of Section, Propulsion & Steering, DNV Maritime. 

“DNV verifies that the solution aligns with the intent of our rules and applicable industry standards and has a viable path to move forward.”

An early study modelling performance of the solution aboard a passenger vessel predicted ABB Dynafin™ would consume 22 percent less energy compared to a conventional shaftline configuration. Subsequent trials by researchers at MARIN earlier this year verified open-water efficiencies above 80 percent, pointing to substantial gains for owners as they seek to cut fuel consumption and outpace greenhouse gas emissions targets for 2030 and beyond.

Photo credit: ABB
Published: 12 January, 2026