Autonomous unmanned surface vessels (USVs) are drawing increasing attention. The intelligent technology of the engine room is the basis of USVs that feature long voyage course and fully autonomous operation, and it ensures that the goals of the USV can be achieved. First, this paper reviews the development status at home and abroad. The scope of the intelligent objectives of the engine room is then proposed, and five ability target images of engine room intelligent technology are identified. Next, the Application-Control-Onsite technology application solution, components and path are presented. Finally, several development key points of engine room intelligent technology are discussed. This work can provide valuable references for the general technological R&D of USVs.