Early next year Rolls-Royce plans to introduce a new 12-cylinder diesel engine, the CV 12, for installation in fast patrol craft and rescue vessels. This engine, in a 60-degree Vee configuration, can deliver 750 bhp at 2,100 rpm, enough power to drive a 50-foot boat at speeds up to 28 knots. Derived from the Rolls-Royce Condor 12V1200 already used in tanks and generating sets, the reliability of the CV 12 has been proven.
The CV 12 has been designed to meet the needs of police and customs all over the world. The engine is also aimed at the search and rescue services.
With a net dry weight of about 4,000 pounds, the CV 12 will have a very favorable power/weight ratio. It will have twin turbocharged, rear-mounted and twin high-mounted camshafts, gear-driven from rear gear trains.
The CV 12 cannot run on heavy fuel and must burn gas oil. But for specialized operations where high speed is essential and time is costly, the new Rolls-Royce engine should find a market.