Volvo Penta launches new propulsion package

Volvo Penta has revealed details of a new version of its Inboard Performance System, designed for commercial vessels, workboats, and superyachts in the 25 to 55m range. Due for launch in 2025, the new Volvo Penta IPS professional platform is designed to operate on a range of energy sources.

It is type approved for heavy-duty applications and is expected to generate fuel consumption savings of up to 30%, the company said, compared with a traditional inboard shaft installation. A new feature will enable individual engines to start and stop based on the vessel’s power requirements at any one time, optimising fuel consumption, engine running hours and maintenance intervals.

The latest system will have the largest and most powerful platform in the Volvo Penta IPS range, including a new and larger drive, Volvo Penta IPS 40. The drive will have a dual power input concept, which manages power to the water in the most efficient way, but also enables power to be harnessed from different energy sources. 

With series production beginning in 2025, the Volvo Penta IPS 40 will be powered by two Volvo Penta D13 engines, linked to a compact aftertreatment system to meet IMO Tier III regulations. Sources of power will range from combustion engines operating on renewable fuels to fully electric or hybrid arrangements. The system is installed as twin, triple, or quad meaning a vessel can have between four and eight sources of power.

Johan Inden, president of Volvo Penta’s marine business, said: “This new Volvo Penta IPS platform has the same performance traits that have delivered a premium solution for countless vessels and now it will provide a smoother on-water experience for the professional and superyacht segments. Now an entirely new group of owners and marine professionals can benefit from the most fully integrated system on the market that really brings new levels of performance, efficiency, and reliability.

“The new Volvo Penta IPS is a powerful platform that will provide the ultimate helm-to-propeller experience,” he continued. “It builds on a rich tradition of forward-thinking Volvo Penta design that puts people at the heart. We are eager to expand the platform to a whole new class of professional marine segments, while at the same time, enabling the move toward increased sustainability at sea. It is an exciting time for the marine industry, and we believe our new Volvo Penta IPS professional platform will be the next game-changer.”