New ZF POD 4900 delivers up to 2,000 HP for vessels up to 150 feet with first installation on Azimut Grande 30M superyacht

With the POD 4900, ZF extends its pod propulsion power range upwards. Compatible with engines up to 2,000 HP at 2,450 RPM and vessels measuring up to 150 feet, the POD 4900 brings unmatched performance in both speed and maneuvering to a larger range of applications, from superyachts to commercial ships like windfarm and crew transfer vessels or ferries. The new propulsion system will be first installed in Azimut’s Grande 30M superyacht, as part of highly integrated power packs supplied by Rolls-Royce Power Systems. The project is a close collaboration between the three companies.

(IN BRIEF) ZF has unveiled the POD 4900, a new pod propulsion system designed for vessels up to 150 feet, offering compatibility with engines up to 2,000 HP at 2,450 RPM. The first installation will be onboard the Azimut Grande 30M superyacht through a collaboration with Rolls-Royce Power Systems, integrating the new pods with mtu power packs. Building on the success of the POD 4600 launched in 2022, the POD 4900 delivers up to 6,107 Nm torque, enhanced maneuverability, and up to 20 percent greater efficiency than comparable shaftline systems. It supports multiple configurations and is certified for up to 3,000 operating hours per year, making it suitable for both leisure and commercial vessels. With improved hydrodynamics, reduced vibration, and corrosion-resistant materials, the POD 4900 combines power, reliability, and comfort, setting a new standard for marine propulsion technology.

(PRESS RELEASE) PADUA/ CANNES, 10-Sep-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — ZF is expanding its marine propulsion portfolio with the introduction of the POD 4900, a new pod system engineered for powerful commercial and recreational vessels up to 150 feet. The system, compatible with engines delivering up to 2,000 HP at 2,450 RPM, will make its debut on the Azimut Grande 30M superyacht, developed in close partnership with Rolls-Royce Power Systems.

ZF first entered the pod propulsion segment in 2022 with the POD 4600, which quickly gained traction across shipyards worldwide. With more than 30 units already delivered, the company is now extending its reach with the POD 4900, tailored to meet the needs of larger yachts and commercial craft. Offering up to 6,107 Nm of input torque and operating in the 20–35 knot speed range, the system delivers a blend of high power and precise maneuverability.

“The introduction of the POD 4900 marks another milestone in our journey as a technology leader,” said Federico Decio, Head of Business Unit Marine & Special Driveline Technology at ZF. “After the successful launch of the POD 4600 on the Azimut Grande 26M in 2022, we are proud to continue our collaboration with Azimut and Rolls-Royce Power Systems. Together we are bringing advanced propulsion and integration to a new generation of superyachts.”

On the Azimut Grande 30M, two POD 4900 units will each deliver 1,920 HP, integrated within power packs developed by Rolls-Royce Power Systems. “The ZF POD allows us to maximize the efficiency of our mtu engines,” said Denise Kurtulus, Senior Vice President Global Marine at Rolls-Royce Power Systems. “The result is an optimized system that reduces fuel consumption, enhances performance, and offers superior maneuverability.”

The POD 4900 also delivers significant efficiency improvements. Its large gear reduction ratio (2,434–2,612) supports larger counter-rotating propellers, which improve propulsion efficiency by up to 20 percent compared to conventional shaftline systems. For vessel owners, this translates into lower engine dimensions, increased onboard space, and reduced fuel use.

Flexibility is another strength. Depending on vessel requirements, the POD 4900 can be configured in twin, triple, or quadruple layouts, making it suitable for both large leisure yachts and medium commercial vessels such as ferries, crew transfer boats, and windfarm support craft. Certified for up to 3,000 operational hours per year, the system meets international approval standards for a wide range of marine applications.

Additional features include corrosion-resistant housing made of nickel aluminum bronze and stainless steel, elastic connections to the hull for reduced vibration and noise, and integration with ZF’s TotalCommand and Joystick steering solutions for smooth and intuitive control.

Media Contacts:

Svenja Mayer
Head of Marketing and Communications, Marine & Special Driveline
+49 7541 77-2418
svenja.mayer@zf.com

Gernot Hein
Head of Communication & Public Affairs / Press Spokesperson, Industrial Technology Division
+49 851 494-2480
gernot.hein@zf.com

SOURCE: ZF