Mega Power

When people refer to engines as being "big iron," they're not kidding—at least in the case of this new 20-cylinder powerplant (emphasis on power) that MTU unveiled last week at the Monaco Yacht Show.

The 20V 4000 M93L series engine produces 5,795 hp, mostly suitable for the 60- to 80-meter (197- to 262-foot) megayacht market, but MTU sees potential even beyond that size range. This latest addition to the 4000 Series is in is in the same power range as the MTU 595 Series engine, which it's intended to replace.

There are a few significant differences between the 20V and the 595 Series. First, it's more compact: about a foot and a half lower in profile and about 3,300 pounds lighter. It's also a common-rail design, so emissions are lower, meeting EPA Tier 2 specifications. And finally, MTU says it's more fuel-efficient, representing a 10-percent fuel savings over the 16V 595.

Four engines have already been sold, according to MTU, with the expected ship-out date in April 2008.