Working in the offshore oil and gas sector is no easy task. Support vessels – whether transporting crew, responding to spills, or running supplies – operate in some of the harshest conditions on the planet. Remote locations, unpredictable seas, and strict safety requirements around platforms make reliability and safety non-negotiable.
Every moment offshore carries risk. A spark in the wrong place can bring operations to a standstill, while an unreliable engine can leave crews vulnerable and emergency responses stretched thin. Add to that the logistical challenges of fuel supply – where every offshore refuelling run costs time and money – and it’s clear that propulsion choice plays a critical role in safety, uptime, and project efficiency.
The Cox Marine V8 Diesel Outboard
To meet these challenges head-on, Cox Marine developed the V8 diesel outboard – a propulsion system designed specifically with offshore industries in mind. Available in 300 hp and 350 hp models, the engine is built around a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 block engineered for commercial duty.
From the outset, Cox focused on three priorities:
- Spark-free safety
- Reliable offshore performance
- Maximum fuel efficiency
The result is a diesel outboard delivering up to 776 lb-ft (1,052 Nm) of torque at just 2,600 rpm – giving even heavily loaded workboats the responsiveness they need when it matters most.
Built for Hazardous Environments
Many offshore installations ban spark-ignition engines for safety reasons. The Cox V8 diesel eliminates this risk at the source. With no spark plugs or high-voltage leads, and with diesel fuel’s higher flash point compared to petrol, the risk of vapour ignition is significantly reduced.
This makes the Cox V8 an ideal fit for standby safety vessels, supply launches, and other support craft working in close proximity to offshore platforms, where compliance with strict safety regulations is a must
Offshore Performance You Can Rely On
Offshore waters rarely offer smooth sailing. Crews need power and control in challenging seas – whether holding position alongside a platform or pushing through swells on the way back to base.
The Cox V8’s twin-turbocharging and advanced engine management deliver strong, immediate torque at low revs, enabling fast planing and precise manoeuvring. Built for high-hour cycles and heavy workloads, the engine is designed to keep performing where conventional outboards fall short.
Driving Efficiency and Sustainability
Efficiency offshore is about more than cost savings – it’s also about reducing environmental impact. Compared with petrol outboards of similar power, the Cox V8 diesel consumes up to 30% less fuel under typical offshore duty cycles.
This means fewer fuel runs, lower carbon emissions, and a smaller environmental footprint per mission. The Cox V8 meets or exceeds international emissions standards including EPA Tier 3, IMO II, and EU RCD II compliance.
Lower Total Cost of Ownership
While diesel outboards carry a higher upfront cost than petrol alternatives, the long-term economics tell another story. Cox’s commercial-grade design, extended service intervals, and fuel efficiency translate to lower total cost of ownership.
Routine servicing is simplified with easy-access points for oil and filter changes, keeping downtime to a minimum. Over time, savings on fuel, fewer parts replacements, and less time out of the water help operators see a faster return on investment.
Global Support Network
Cox Marine supports operators in more than 175 territories worldwide. With a strong dealer and distributor network, factory-trained technicians, and access to genuine parts, operators can count on service and support wherever their fleet is working.
Cox also offers tailored maintenance programs and crew training to further reduce downtime and keep vessels operational around the clock.
The Complete Offshore Solution
The Cox Marine V8 diesel outboard combines spark-free safety, outstanding torque, fuel efficiency, and worldwide service into one comprehensive propulsion solution for the offshore oil and gas industry.
Whether building new vessels or repowering existing fleets, operators can count on Cox Marine to deliver engines designed for the toughest offshore environments.
Contact your local Power Equipment dealer today to learn how the Cox Marine V8 diesel outboard can improve the safety, efficiency, and performance of your offshore operations.
