Total Onboard Power Solutions (TOPS)

Advancing the drive for more efficient, quieter, power-dense propulsion.

Kohler and Leonardo DRS, both cutting edge industry power system partners, provide advanced propulsion system configurations that would include hybrid electric drive (HED) to provide a more pleasurable experience for the customer while reducing environmental impact. Low-speed cruising under electric propulsion provides the quietest and most fuel efficient operation, while minimizing emissions that can be reduced to zero in port if an energy storage system is included.

Economic benefits are derived from load-leveling, peak-shaving and spinning reserve functionality. With an energy storage solution, the generators can be smaller sized or fewer in number to handle the base load.  The system can shave the peaks or level the load on the generators to reduce fuel consumption, emissions, wear and tear and maintenance on the engines, and spinning reserve will improve propulsion response time and provide backup power. The main diesel engines can be used for high-speed transiting with regeneration functionality. The system will seamlessly shift between modes, based on the power and operating demands and provide the following benefits:

• Maximized fuel economy, leading to lowest operating costs and maximum range
• Silent operation under electric drive
• Zero emissions under electric drive in port
• Minimized stress on the propulsion components, leading to reduced maintenance and replacement costs
• Increased redundancy in the propulsion system
• Reduced generator acquisition costs