Decisions on fuel choice and drivetrain architecture are reshaping shipowners’ capital plans. Three days in Hamburg gather technical debate on propulsion systems, alternative fuels and operational compliance.
What the conference brings together in Hamburg
Propulsion & Future Fuels Conference 2026 runs from 8 to 10 December at the Empire Riverside Hotel, Hamburg. The event emphasises advances in propulsion technology, alternative fuels and practical pathways towards lower-emission shipping. Sessions include live demonstrations such as Propulsion & Future Fuels Live and technical visits tied to the conference programme.
Sponsors and supporters listed for the event include Lloyd’s Register, DNV and specialist equipment suppliers like LEWA and Sauer Compressors. The programme also addresses retrofit strategies and operational implications of fuel switching.
Programme highlights and speakers
Chairmen and moderators named in the programme include Lars Robert Pedersen, Dr. Markus Münz, Philipp Simmank and Gavin Allwright. Technical speakers on the roster include Torsten Mundt, Derek Munro, Dr. Fabian Kock and Bram van Puijenbroek. Recent items published in the conference news mention sessions on IMO MEPC 85 implications, the NOxFree nuclear debate and operational lessons from retrofit projects.
The structure blends technical talks, panel debate and live sessions around wind power and other propulsion-related technologies. The agenda also features a conference dinner and optional technical visits.
B2B prospecting tactics for exhibitors and suppliers
Target the technical leads named in the programme and the listed sponsors when planning outreach. Prepare concise technical datasheets that address emissions metrics, retrofit compatibility and operating costs under different fuel pathways. Use case studies that quantify performance changes post-retrofit and be ready to discuss compliance with the regulatory items highlighted in the programme.
Schedule meetings during less crowded time slots and prioritise demonstrations for stakeholders who are part of retrofit decision chains. Having a short, technical pitch aligned with the IMO and methane slip topics increases relevance for shipowners and classification society attendees.
Practical information
Dates 8 to 10 December 2026. Venue Empire Riverside Hotel, Hamburg. The conference site includes the programme book, details on the conference dinner and options for technical visits.
Closing note and official link
For companies selling propulsion systems, fuel handling or retrofit solutions the conference is a place to align product claims with current regulatory discussion and technical scrutiny. Check the full agenda and book attendance at http://www.motorship.com/propulsion-and-future-fuels-conference
