Fast delivery
A standardised foundation reduces engineering and delivery times from months to weeks.
Smarter propulsion. Ready for the future.
The future of propulsion control
Brand-independent propulsion control systems with short lead times, straightforward installation and one platform for all common engines, gearboxes and thrusters — ready for remote control, JIT sailing and autonomous integration.
Delivered within weeks
Brand independent
Type-approved hardware
Our solutions
From newbuild to retrofit.
From platform to control.
One technical foundation, configured to meet the project requirements and desired level of integration.
Propulsion control
Newbuild
From throttle and gearbox control to complete engine control and data acquisition. One complete package, from control cabinets to bridge controls and HMIs.
- One complete integrated system
- Straightforward third-party integration
- Fast delivery, certified hardware and competitive project costs
Propulsion control
Retrofit
Upgrade an existing propulsion control system so it remains reliable for years and becomes ready for the latest developments in autonomy, safety and efficient sailing.
- Fast delivery and minimal downtime
- Brand independent for all common components
- Reliable and easy to integrate with third parties
Marine controls
Levers
Modern marine controls with or without force feedback. Tactile and visual information reaches the operator directly for more efficient and accurate control.
- Reduced fuel consumption and component wear
- Customisation and visual LED feedback
- Modern design and type-approved
Why Smart-Ship
Built for fast integration.
Designed for the long term.
Brand independent
Freedom to select the engines, thrusters, drives and other components that best suit the vessel.
Smart by design
Standardised interfaces make third-party integration straightforward without implying an open-source platform.
Future-ready
Prepared for remote control, Track Pilot, JIT sailing and semi-autonomous functionality.
35%
Smarter and more sustainable sailing
Up to 35% fuel savings achieved.
Across customer projects, smart control and force feedback have combined to deliver significant reductions in fuel consumption, emissions and unnecessary component load.
The Smart-Ship platform
One digital link between bridge, propulsion and the future.
The platform collects, processes and distributes data from propulsion and onboard systems. This creates one dependable foundation for control, monitoring, optimisation and integration with external systems.
CANJ1939NMEAModbusEthernetI/O
Navigation
Remote control
Bridge controls
Remote support
PROPULSION CONTROL PLATFORM
EMS / PMS
Engines & drives
Gearboxes
Thrusters & systems
Smart-Ship applications
Applied on modern vessels.
Examples of newbuild, retrofit and remote-control projects built around the Smart-Ship platform.
View applications
For this series of modern catamaran ferries, Smart-Ship developed a fully integrated propulsion control system for the retractable bow thrusters.
The system includes two control stations connected through our haptic force-feedback technology. This enables a safe, intuitive, and seamless transfer of control between stations. Designed for easy integration, the propulsion control system communicates directly with the vessel’s other control, monitoring, and alarm systems.
On board the Alfa Grande, Smart-Ship is pioneering a new approach to propulsion control by combining force-feedback control levers with track-pilot functionality and Just-in-Time sailing.
Together with our partner Shipping Technology, we refitted the vessel’s propulsion control system to support semi-autonomous sailing. The Smart-Ship force-feedback control levers can be operated automatically by the navigation system while remaining physically available to the operator for immediate intervention.
This integration supports more efficient vessel operation, improved arrival-time planning, and the further development of autonomous and semi-autonomous inland shipping.
Together with our partner SEAFAR, Smart-Ship is helping shape the future of remotely controlled shipping.
We have supplied haptic force-feedback control levers for SEAFAR’s remote control stations. Through a new CrossRoads collaboration, we are expanding the use of force feedback in both the remote control centre and on board the vessel.
By connecting the onboard and remote propulsion controls through force feedback, operators can receive additional information directly through the control levers. This improves situational awareness, enables faster intervention, and supports additional safety functions during remote vessel operations.
This project is supported by funding from the European Union.
Ship portfolio
On the water. Around the world.
Propulsion control explained
The right control system for the vessel and its future.
Concise answers for shipowners, shipyards and system integrators evaluating marine propulsion control.
What is a marine propulsion control system?
A marine propulsion control system connects bridge commands with engines, gearboxes, drives and thrusters. Smart-Ship supplies the control cabinets, PLC software, bridge controls, HMI and interfaces as one integrated system.
Can Smart-Ship modernise an existing vessel?
Yes. A propulsion control retrofit replaces obsolete mechanical or electronic controls while retaining suitable vessel equipment. The new system is engineered for minimal downtime and future connections such as JIT sailing, remote support and semi-autonomous functions.
Which propulsion types and interfaces are supported?
The platform is brand independent and supports common diesel, hybrid, electric and diesel-electric arrangements, including azimuth and tunnel thrusters. Interfaces include CAN, J1939, NMEA, Modbus, Ethernet and conventional I/O.
What controls can Smart-Ship supply?
Smart-Ship supplies electronic engine controls, propulsion levers, marine joystick controls, tillers, bridge panels and remote-control stations, with conventional or force-feedback operation.
Your next project
Ready for modern propulsion control?
Whether it concerns a newbuild, a retrofit or individual control components, discuss the possibilities with our team.
Contact us