Bridgnorth-based casting specialist Grainger & Worrall (www.gwcast.com) has won a contract to manufacture the main engine castings for the world’s first 300hp diesel outboard marine engine.

The company has been chosen by Hampshire-based Cox Powertrain Ltd, because it can deliver flexible programmes in a short timescale with precise quality control.

The CXO300 diesel outboard engine is a 4.4-litre twin turbo-charged V8 offering up to 25% better fuel efficiency than petrol variants, making it suitable for a wide range of applications including sea rescue craft.

Grainger & Worrall director Matthew Grainger said: “We are delighted to be identified by Cox Powertrain as the ideal partner for its incredible new diesel engine project.

“We will produce the cylinder heads and both upper and lower crankcase as the first series production contract for these four significant engine castings, and the first deliveries will be made by the end of the year.

“Our flexible approach is the perfect solution for manufacturers and suppliers working to short timescales.”

Grainger & Worrall has developed a number of innovative casting technologies designed to accelerate the time to market of new products, supported by its digital simulation, small- to medium-scale manufacturing and engineering capabilities. These include ‘digital sand manufacture’.

Duncan Green, head of procurement at Cox Powertrain, said: “With Grainger & Worrall continuing to invest in technologies and techniques that enhance its capabilities, and with a long and proven track record of delivering similar products in to other premium OEMs, it makes the ideal supplier for Cox Powertrain.”