Abstract: A propulsion drive assembly for a marine vessel is described. The propulsion drive assembly includes a propeller drive unit for carrying and driving at least one propeller, a housing for connection to a hull of the marine vessel, a suspension mechanism attached to the housing and configured to suspend the propeller drive unit, wherein the suspension mechanism is movable along a first longitudinal axis of the housing between a stowed position, in which the propeller drive unit is positioned inside the inner space of the housing, and a deployed position in which at least a portion of the propeller drive unit protrudes outside the housing through the first opening, and a gas supply device configured to supply gas into the inner space of the housing, the gas supply device comprising a gas pump or a controllable valve connectable to a source of pressurized gas.

Abstract: The rate at which a catalytic converter for an internal combustion engine heats up to its normal operating temperature range can be increased by applying an electrical load that is powered by the internal combustion engine. Applying the electrical load demands more power from the engine which therefore has to work harder to maintain a given engine speed. The internal combustion engine then generates more heat that can be used to reduce the time to bring the catalytic converter up to its working temperature. The electrical load can be a catalytic converter heater to further reduce the time to bring the catalytic converter up to its working temperature. The result is a reduction in emissions.

Abstract: The rate at which a catalytic converter heats up to its normal operating temperature range, (e.g., during a start up phase) is increased by applying an external load to an internal combustion engine. Applying the external load causes the engine to generate more heat, which can be used to reduce the time that it takes to bring the catalytic converter up to its working temperature. As a result, a reduction in emissions can be achieved.