Hybrid/diesel-electric propulsion is the technology where a diesel internal combustion engine (ICE) drives a generator to produce energy for an electric motor in a vehicle. The use of a hybrid system is mostly the cause of a high demand for electronic usage other than the electronic motor in a vehicle. It is also popular for vehicles when entering emission restricted areas and using only the battery energy for short periods of time. A hybrid propulsion system is not to be confused with a full electric propulsion system, where there are not any fuel powered generators present.

Hybrid/diesel-electric propulsion is used in many different vehicles. In all hybrid systems there is an internal combustion engine, generator, battery pack and an electric motor. Hybrids use energy efficiently by turning the internal combustion engine off when the demand for electricity is low or when the battery is fully charged. Such systems are known as start-stop systems. The internal combustion engine in hybrid systems are not geared and only have one operating speed, this results in a well optimized engine due to the isolated condition. The outcome of the hybrid system is that emissions of Particulate Matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NO_X), sulpher oxides (SO_X), carbon dioxide (CO₂) are lower compared to using a fuel engine alone.

It is possible to retrofit a vessel with a diesel engine to become a hybrid system. The investment is highly dependent on the power of the diesel engine and the size and type of the ship. A hybrid system reduces fuel consumption, in some occasions with as much as 25 per cent and therefore increases the range of the vessel. By retrofitting a standard diesel engine propulsion system, it will make the vessel comply the new CCR regulations of 2016 and it will also reduce emissions which can lead to a reduction of port dues.

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