Schottel Hydro
SCHOTTEL GmbH is a German privately-held maritime propulsion system manufacturer (founded 1921) that designs, produces, and services azimuth thrusters, controllable-pitch propellers, and integrated automation systems (50-30,000 kW) for shipbuilders and shipowners across tugs, ferries, tankers, naval, offshore wind, and cruise segments worldwide.
- Company typePrivate
- Founded1921
- HeadquartersSpay, Germany
- Headcount1,001–5,000
- GTM typeB2B
- OfferingHardware or Manufacturing
What Schottel Hydro does
SCHOTTEL GmbH, headquartered in Spay, Germany and wholly-owned by SCHOTTEL Industries GmbH, is a privately-held maritime propulsion system manufacturer founded in 1921. The company designs, develops, and manufactures azimuth propulsion systems, controllable-pitch propellers, transverse and rim thrusters, pump jets, and integrated automation and propulsion control systems under brand families including SRP, SRE, STP, SCP, SRP-R, SPJ, STT, SRT, SAS, and SMS. Its power range spans 50 to 30,000 kilowatts across more than nine product series, with the original 360-degree steerable RudderPropeller (invented 1950 by Josef Becker) as its signature technology and over 17,000 units installed globally. Manufacturing is conducted at two German production sites: Dörth (24,000 m², opened 2015) and Wismar (15,000 m², acquired 1999), with the latter focused on large controllable-pitch propellers up to 30 MW and 8-metre diameters.
The company sells through a direct enterprise field-sales model supported by 17+ wholly-owned subsidiaries and authorized service stations across six continents, targeting shipbuilders, shipowners, and vessel operators across ten vertical segments including tugboats/workboats, ferries, tankers, cruise ships, offshore wind service vessels, naval/governmental, research, yachts, inland waterway, and dredging vessels. Revenue is generated via (1) hardware sales of custom, quote-based propulsion systems on multi-year contracts tied to vessel specifications, (2) after-sales services comprising spare parts, preventive maintenance, technical consultation, 24/7 emergency hotline support, and training, and (3) a retrofits and conversions line extending the operating life of existing vessels. Recent contract wins (2024-2026) demonstrate positioning around the maritime energy transition: dual-fuel methanol tugs for Kotug Canada (Sanmar Shipyards), hybrid chemical tankers for Mureloil achieving up to 50% GHG reduction, two LNG bunker vessels for Shanghai International Port Group, 40 RudderPropellers across 20 escort tugs for ONEX Shipyards, and a hybrid electric hydrographic vessel for the UK Northern Lighthouse Board.
Underlying engineering capability rests on more than 100 engineers across hydrodynamics, mechanical R&D, automation and propulsion control, and technical product information, backed by a 900+ core CFD cluster, annual 500+ propeller designs, 100+ FEM simulations, 30+ component tests, and 20+ prototype factory acceptance tests. SCHOTTEL holds DNV-certified ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and ISO 50001 management systems, AEO customs certification, and operates MariNet as a digital marine services platform. Research alliances with TUHH, SINTEF Ocean, Lürssen, NATO STO, Transport Canada's Quiet Vessel Initiative, and the BMWK-funded FlettnerFLEET consortium extend its R&D pipeline into propeller noise reduction, autonomous operations, and wind-assisted propulsion.
Schottel Hydro firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- Schottel Hydro
- Legal name
- SCHOTTEL GmbH
- Website
- https://schottel.de
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 1921
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 1,001–5,000 employees
- Short description
- SCHOTTEL GmbH is a German privately-held maritime propulsion system manufacturer (founded 1921) that designs, produces, and services azimuth thrusters, controllable-pitch propellers, and integrated automation systems (50-30,000 kW) for shipbuilders and shipowners across tugs, ferries, tankers, naval, offshore wind, and cruise segments worldwide.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
Schottel Hydro industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Marine Propulsion Systems
- NAICS
- Ship Building and Repairing (336611), Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing (334511)
- SIC
- Engines & Turbines (3510)
- akta.pro primary industry
- Azimuth Thrusters & Podded Propulsion (IMAJAHAF)
- akta.pro secondary industries
- Propulsion Drives, Gearboxes & Shaftlines (IMAJAHAD), Propulsion MRO, Spares & Field Service (Overhauls, retrofits, upgrades) (IMAJAHAN), Marine Automation, Control & PLC/SCADA Systems (IMAJAJAC)
Keywords
Where Schottel Hydro is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Spay
- HQ country
- Germany
- HQ region
- Europe
Offices19 records
Markets served
Schottel Hydro business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2B
- Offering type
- Hardware or Manufacturing
- Cost components
- Supply Chain, Personnel, Operations, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure, Marketing or Sales
Revenue model
- Propulsion Systems & Equipment Sales: SCHOTTEL generates primary revenue from the sale of propulsion systems, thrusters, propellers, and automation equipment for new ship builds. This includes SRP, SRE, STP, SCP, SRP-R, SPJ, STT, SRT, and SAS products. The company manufactures complete propulsion packages for vessels of all types and sizes up to 30 MW power capacity.
- After-Sales & Service: Revenue from after-sales services including spare parts, preventive maintenance, technical consultation, repair services, and training courses. SCHOTTEL provides 24/7 emergency hotline support through its global network of subsidiaries and service stations.
- Retrofits & Conversions: Revenue from retrofitting existing vessels with new propulsion systems, extending vessel life and improving efficiency. SCHOTTEL offers retrofits as a dedicated service line alongside new builds.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Other | Multi-year contract | Custom propulsion systems quote-based |
Go-to-market motion2 records
Distribution channels5 records
Marketing channels7 records
Schottel Hydro product offering
Product offeringCore offering
SCHOTTEL develops, manufactures, and services azimuth propulsion systems (RudderPropellers, EcoPellers, TwinPropellers, Retractable RudderPropellers, PumpJets, TransverseThrusters, RimThrusters), controllable pitch propellers, and integrated vessel automation and propulsion control systems for commercial ships, naval vessels, and offshore applications. The company also provides lifecycle after-sales services including spare parts, preventive maintenance, technical consultation, training, and 24/7 emergency support through a global subsidiary and service station network.
Product overview
SCHOTTEL offers the maritime industry's largest portfolio of propulsion and control systems, spanning more than 9 series with power ranges from 50 to 30,000 kilowatts. The product lineup centers on azimuth propulsion systems (SRP, SRE, STP, SRP-R, SRT, SPJ), controllable pitch propellers (SCP), transverse thrusters (STT), and automation/control systems (SAS). Supporting services (SMS) cover the full product lifecycle from new builds and retrofits to 24/7 emergency support. The company operates two production facilities in Germany (Dörth and Wismar) and maintains subsidiaries and service stations worldwide.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Brands
- SRP (SCHOTTEL RudderPropeller): The original around-the-clock steerable rudder propeller, SCHOTTEL's flagship product line with over 17,000 units installed worldwide.
- SRE (SCHOTTEL EcoPeller)
- STP (SCHOTTEL TwinPropeller)
- SCP (SCHOTTEL ControllablePropeller)
- SRP-R (SCHOTTEL Retractable RudderPropeller)
- SPJ (SCHOTTEL PumpJet)
- STT (SCHOTTEL TransverseThruster)
- SRT (SCHOTTEL RimThruster)
- SAS (SCHOTTEL Automation Systems)
- SMS (SCHOTTEL Marine Services)
- MariNet
Products and services
- SRP - SCHOTTEL RudderPropeller Flagship azimuth propulsion system combining a 360-degree rotatable propeller and rudder into a single unit, providing superior maneuverability and propulsion efficiency for vessels of all types and sizes. Used by shipbuilders, shipowners, and naval operators.
- SRE - SCHOTTEL EcoPeller Azimuth propulsion system optimized for fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact, designed for commercial vessels requiring optimal operational economy.
- STP - SCHOTTEL TwinPropeller Twin-propeller azimuth system featuring two contra-rotating propellers on a single shaft, delivering enhanced thrust and efficiency for high-power commercial and offshore applications.
- SCP - SCHOTTEL ControllablePropeller Fixed-shaft controllable pitch propeller system allowing thrust adjustment without changing engine speed, suitable for vessels requiring variable thrust demands and large merchant ships.
- SRP-R - SCHOTTEL Retractable RudderPropeller Retractable azimuth propulsion system that can be raised into the hull when not in use, ideal for vessels requiring minimal draft during port operations.
- SPJ - SCHOTTEL PumpJet Waterjet propulsion system providing high-speed operation and excellent maneuverability, suitable for fast craft and patrol vessels.
- STT - SCHOTTEL TransverseThruster Tunnel-mounted transverse thruster providing lateral thrust for enhanced docking and low-speed maneuverability in confined waters.
- SRT - SCHOTTEL RimThruster Azimuth thruster with rim-driven motor technology integrated into the propeller ring, offering compact design and high efficiency for specialized applications.
- SAS - SCHOTTEL Automation Systems Integrated automation and propulsion control systems providing vessel-wide monitoring, control, and optimization of propulsion operations.
- SMS - SCHOTTEL Marine Services Comprehensive after-sales service portfolio including 24/7 emergency support, technical consultation, preventive maintenance, training courses, and spare parts supply for installed propulsion systems.
Quantifiable outcome
- Up to 50% GHG emissions reduction with hybrid propulsion systems
- +2 more outcomes
Companies that use Schottel Hydro
Customer profileNamed customers5 records
Segments10 records
Ideal customer profiles3 records
Schottel Hydro technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed Yes
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Feature7 records
Schottel Hydro partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
Eleven partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.
- Kotug Canada (Joint Venture of Kotug International and Horizon Maritime)coreSCHOTTEL supplies Schottel thrusters for Kotug Canada's world's first dual-fuel methanol rescue/escort tugs. The two 44-metre vessels (SD Aisemaht and SD Qwiy Aanitsa Sarah), built by Sanmar Shipyards in Turkey, are fitted with dual-fuel methanol-diesel engines from Anglo Belgian Corp and Schottel thrusters, achieving ~60% methanol substitution rates. These will be Canada's most powerful port tugs, serving Aframax tankers on a 150-nautical-mile route between Trans Mountain Pipeline export terminal and Pacific Ocean.
- MureloilcoreSCHOTTEL delivering propulsion package for Mureloil's second hybrid chemical tanker, the 8,000 DWT Bahía Beatriz, built by Spanish shipyard Astilleros de Murueta. The vessel features two SCHOTTEL RudderPropellers and one TransverseThruster. Operating alongside sister vessel Bahía Candela, the duo represents among the first tankers with battery-based diesel-electric power cutting greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50% and enabling zero-emission port calls.
- Northern Lighthouse Board (NLB)coreSCHOTTEL supplied propulsion package for NLB's POLE STAR vessel built by Gondan. The vessel features advanced hybrid electric propulsion systems and redundant thrusters for operational safety, designed for hydrographic surveys and maintenance of buoys and lighthouses in Scotland and around the Isle of Man.
- ONEX Shipyards & Technologies GroupcoreSCHOTTEL awarded contract to supply 40 SRP 490 FP RudderPropellers for a new series of 20 RAstar 2800 escort/terminal tugs. The ASD tugs designed by Robert Allan will be equipped with Schottel propulsion for escort and terminal operations.
- Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG)coreSCHOTTEL selected to supply RudderPropellers for two new LNG bunker vessels for SIPG. Each vessel has 20,000 cbm LNG storage capacity, supporting LNG bunkering operations at Shanghai port.
- SINTEF OceanminorResearch partner in ProNoVi project (2019-2021) focused on analysis methods and design measures for reduction of noise and vibration induced by marine propellers. ProNoVi was funded by Horizon 2020 – MarTERA and involved computational fluid dynamics simulation for propeller noise prediction.
- Technische Universität Hamburg (TUHH)minorAcademic research partner in multiple projects including ProNoVi (noise reduction), Red-Emi (autonomous operations), and StruMan (maneuvering near structures). TUHH collaborates on CFD simulations, propeller design optimization, and autonomous vessel control research.
- LürssenminorIndustry partner in ProNoVi research project focused on noise and vibration reduction in marine propellers. Lürssen contributes naval vessel propulsion requirements and testing capabilities.
- Quiet Vessel Initiative (Transport Canada)minorPartner in HyPNoS project (Hydrodynamic Propeller Noise Monitoring System) investigating noise reduction in double-ended ferries operating in the Strait of Georgia near Vancouver, Canada. Project focuses on protecting cetacean species through propeller design modifications.
- NATO STO (Science and Technology Organization)minorSCHOTTEL participates in NATO STO Applied Vehicle Technology research focusing on turbulent cavitating flows and their impact on military ship operations. Research involves high-fidelity simulation of multiphase flows at high Reynolds numbers.
- FlettnerFLEET ConsortiumminorSCHOTTEL part of FlettnerFLEET consortium (2023-2026) funded by BMWK, developing comprehensive methodology for Flettner rotor integration on different ship types. SCHOTTEL's role is development of economical design and manufacturing processes for Flettner rotors and main propulsion control systems.
Scale indicators16 records
Recent moves9 records
Expansion highlights5 records
Schottel Hydro competitors and assessment
Company assessmentBroad incumbents
- Wärtsilä: Wärtsilä is a global leader in marine engine and propulsion technology, offering complete ship power solutions including engines, propellers, and hybrid systems. It competes directly with SCHOTTEL in azimuth thrusters and integrated propulsion packages for commercial vessels.
- ABB Marine & Ports: ABB provides Azipod azimuth propulsion, electric propulsion systems, and automation for vessels ranging from cruise ships to offshore. ABB's Azipod competes directly with SCHOTTEL's SRP and is a key competitor in the integrated electric-hybrid propulsion space.
- MAN Energy Solutions: MAN Energy Solutions is a leading supplier of large two-stroke marine engines and is increasingly bundling propulsion packages with propeller solutions. It is a strategic competitor for integrated propulsion contracts on large merchant vessels where SCHOTTEL also bids.
- ZF Marine / ZF Friedrichshafen: ZF Marine supplies marine propulsion systems including gearboxes, propellers, and integrated drivelines for commercial and leisure vessels. It overlaps with SCHOTTEL in propulsion drive trains and is an adjacent competitor in the propulsion package space.
- Kawasaki Heavy Industries (Ship & Offshore): Kawasaki Heavy Industries produces marine propulsion systems including propellers and maneuvering systems for LNG carriers, naval vessels, and merchant ships. It is a broad incumbent with overlapping capabilities in the large-vessel propulsion segment.
- Kongsberg Maritime (Rolls-Royce commercial marine): Kongsberg Maritime supplies azimuth thrusters, controllable pitch propellers, and integrated propulsion control systems for offshore, naval, and merchant vessels. Its product portfolio overlaps substantially with SCHOTTEL's SRP and SCP lines across both power ranges and vessel types.
Direct peers
- Brunvoll AS: Brunvoll is a Norwegian manufacturer of azimuth thrusters, tunnel thrusters, and controllable pitch propellers for tugboats, offshore vessels, and naval ships. It is one of SCHOTTEL's closest direct competitors in the European tug and offshore propulsion market.
- Thrustmaster of Texas: Thrustmaster is a US-based manufacturer of marine azimuth thrusters and control systems, with strong positioning in the US tugboat and offshore markets where it competes directly with SCHOTTEL USA.
- Berg Propulsion: Berg Propulsion (part of Alleima) is a Swedish manufacturer of azimuth thrusters and main propulsion systems for tugs, offshore, and naval applications. It competes head-to-head with SCHOTTEL in the workboat and offshore vessel segments across similar power ranges.
- Nakashima Propeller Co., Ltd. Nakashima Propeller is a Japanese manufacturer of marine propellers, controllable pitch propellers, and shafting systems. It competes with SCHOTTEL in the merchant ship and naval propulsion segments, particularly across Asian shipyards.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat5 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights6 records
Customer concentration
Schottel Hydro social profiles
Digital presenceSchottel Hydro compliance and trust
Trust signalCompliance6 records
Schottel Hydro financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
Schottel Hydro leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles3 records
Schottel Hydro subsidiaries and ownership
Company hierarchySubsidiaries18 records
Schottel Hydro funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds2 records
Investors2 records
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Schottel Hydro M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about Schottel Hydro
What does Schottel Hydro do?
SCHOTTEL develops, manufactures, and services azimuth propulsion systems (RudderPropellers, EcoPellers, TwinPropellers, Retractable RudderPropellers, PumpJets, TransverseThrusters, RimThrusters), controllable pitch propellers, and integrated vessel automation and propulsion control systems for commercial ships, naval vessels, and offshore applications. The company also provides lifecycle after-sales services including spare parts, preventive maintenance, technical consultation, training, and 24/7 emergency support through a global subsidiary and service station network.
Is Schottel Hydro a public or private company?
Schottel Hydro is a private company. It is classified as corporate owned and is currently operating.
When was Schottel Hydro founded?
Schottel Hydro was founded in 1921. It employs 1,001 to 5,000 people.
Where is Schottel Hydro based?
Schottel Hydro is headquartered in Spay, Germany, in the Europe region.
How does Schottel Hydro make money?
Three revenue lines are on record. Propulsion Systems & Equipment Sales are the primary driver. The others are after-Sales & Service and retrofits & Conversions.
Who are Schottel Hydro's main competitors?
Broad incumbents on record are Wärtsilä, ABB Marine & Ports, MAN Energy Solutions, ZF Marine / ZF Friedrichshafen, Kawasaki Heavy Industries (Ship & Offshore) and Kongsberg Maritime (Rolls-Royce commercial marine). Direct peers are Brunvoll AS, Thrustmaster of Texas, Berg Propulsion and Nakashima Propeller Co., Ltd..
Does Schottel Hydro have an API?
No public API is recorded for Schottel Hydro.
What industry is Schottel Hydro in?
Schottel Hydro's product category is Marine Propulsion Systems. Its primary akta.pro industry code is IMAJAHAF, Azimuth Thrusters & Podded Propulsion, with a secondary code of IMAJAHAD, Propulsion Drives, Gearboxes & Shaftlines. Its NAICS code is 336611 and its SIC code is 3510.