Rolls-Royce, the renowned UK-based engine manufacturer, has made a strategic move to bolster its position in the yacht market by acquiring Team Italia/Onyx Marine, a specialist in marine automation tools. The acquisition will strengthen Rolls-Royce’s “bridge-to-propeller” strategy, focusing on integrated solutions for the yacht industry.
Team Italia, established in 2000, is known for its expertise in designing and developing integrated bridges, marine navigation, and automation systems for luxury yacht builders and shipyards worldwide. With their systems already in use on over 350 yachts ranging from 30 to 100 meters in length, Team Italia holds a prominent position in the global yacht market.
The collaboration between Rolls-Royce and Team Italia dates back to 2019 when they worked on joint development projects. Recognizing the potential for strategic growth, both companies have agreed that joining forces under the Rolls-Royce umbrella would be the most effective way to achieve their shared goals.
Rolls-Royce’s Power Systems business unit has been making significant strides in the yacht market. Just last year, the company opened a state-of-the-art assembly plant in Germany for its MTU Series 2000 yacht engines. Additionally, Rolls-Royce has an ongoing supply agreement with Ferretti Group, a leading yacht manufacturer, for the use of their MTU engines.
Denise Kurtulus, the vice president marine at Rolls-Royce Power Systems, highlighted the importance of this acquisition, stating, “This is the next logical step toward our vision of providing integrated solutions for the yacht industry. Our product portfolios complement each other perfectly, and this expansion significantly enhances our market position, bringing further benefits to our customers.”
In addition to their renowned MTU propulsion systems, Rolls-Royce offers integrated bridge products, regulation and control systems, as well as automation and navigation systems tailored for luxury yachts.
Massimo Minnella, managing director at Team Italia, expressed his enthusiasm about becoming a part of the Rolls-Royce group, emphasizing the need for a strong partner to ensure structured expansion and future growth. He believes that the collaboration with Rolls-Royce Power Systems will yield excellent prospects and benefits in the global luxury yacht market.
Daniele Ceccanti, technical director at Team Italia, added that the integration of their expertise with Rolls-Royce Power Systems will advance the development of increasingly complex systems, making future yachts simpler and safer to operate.
Following the acquisition, the company will operate under the name Team Italia Marine and will continue its operations in the Italian cities of Fano, Livorno, and Forlì. Massimo Minnella and Daniele Ceccanti will retain their positions as managing director and technical director, respectively. They will be supported by Nicola Camuffo, the head of the Rolls-Royce MTU Yacht Competence Centre in La Spezia.
Rolls-Royce’s acquisition of Team Italia/Onyx Marine marks a significant step toward becoming a leading provider of integrated solutions for the yacht industry. By combining their strengths, Rolls-Royce aims to enhance its market position and offer improved products and services, reflecting the continuous evolution of luxury yachts and fostering further innovation in the global luxury yacht market.
