Volvo Penta 8-liter diesel engine and new IPS drive make American debut
For the first time in the U.S., Volvo Penta is presenting its 8-liter diesel engine and a perfectly matched new IPS drive. These solutions, along with other innovations recently introduced by the company, will be showcased at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in booth 1203/1204.
These new products are the latest example of Volvo Penta’s Easy Boating initiative, featuring helm-to-prop integration, according to Ron Huibers, president of Volvo Penta of the Americas. “Our vision of Easy Boating is built on a proven track record of innovation and integration. Volvo Penta’s leadership with integrated propulsion systems is the key to optimizing system performance and fuel efficiency while improving the customer experience. Boat-builders, dealers and end users know that they can look to Volvo Penta for a totally integrated solution, built and supported by a single trusted supplier,” he said.
Introduction of the D8 engine
With the release of the D8 engine, available for both IPS and inboard shaft applications, Volvo Penta now offers an even broader selection of power systems and meets a growing demand for an engine with 550 to 600 horsepower. In line with Volvo Penta’s other diesel engines, the D8 offers industry-leading torque across the full range of RPMs and ensures efficient cruising speed and maneuverability in all conditions. The modern technology and robust design of the engine enables low noise levels and minimal vibrations.
Expanded range of IPS
Building on more than a decade of success since first introducing the IPS, Volvo Penta has expanded this revolutionary product range through introduction of the D8-IPS700 and D8-IPS800. With this addition to the range, Volvo Penta is extending the benefits of IPS to an even greater variety of boats. With its unique forward-facing, twin counter-rotating propellers, combined with steerable pods, IPS continues to set the standard in handling, onboard comfort and maneuverability.
IPS continues to impress boat owners due to its compact design, high-performance, fuel efficiency and reduction in noise and vibration levels. Volvo Penta significantly changed the boating industry in 2005 when IPS was introduced and since then, over 20,000 IPS units have been delivered to 550 boat builders and are installed in over 1,100 different boat models.
“Introduction of the Volvo Penta D8, D8-IPS700 and D8-IPS800 fills a key niche in our marine leisure market line up. This exceptional package provides state-of-the-art fuel efficiency, classic Volvo Penta high torque at low RPMs and remarkably low NVH to powerboats in the 45-55 foot range. Our customers throughout North and South America are tremendously excited at the launch of these superior products designed to function seamlessly with demanded features like Glass Cockpit, Interceptor tabs and now Battery Management System,” said Marcia Kull, vice president of marine sales for Volvo Penta of the Americas.
Key fob for remote power up
Volvo Penta is also showcasing its new Battery Management System, a fully integrated solution for monitoring, managing and maintaining all the boat’s batteries from a central display at the helm station, replacing multiple separate voltage meters for each battery. The system works behind the scenes to monitor and manage the battery main switches and related functions and gives visibility into all the boat’s batteries, showing voltages, current flows, time-to-full charge or discharge, state of charge and status of battery health in a single display at the helm station or integrated into the Glass Cockpit. Best of all for boat owners, the system’s e-Key Remote is the first key on the market that is connected and integrated into the boat’s entire driveline. The key fob allows users to switch on the battery supply, authorize the valid key and power up the EVC on the engines, and even energize the deck floodlights, electric gangway and anchor windlass – 300 feet away from the boat.
Availability of pioneering Joystick for Inboards
In 2006, Volvo Penta was the first to introduce joystick technology for leisure boating. Carrying on the tradition of industry firsts, Volvo Penta is once again breaking new ground with introduction of the Joystick Inboard solution for twin inboard shaft applications. This complete system is the first of its kind to integrate the rudder with the gear, throttle and thrusters for superior maneuverability.
Leveraging our joystick experience from IPS along with Volvo Penta’s Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) platform that is based on the same CAN-bus technology used in ships and planes, the company now offers a complete helm-to-prop solution for inboard applications. With electronic steering and thrusters, the precision and reliability delivered via Joystick Inboard is exceptional for an inboard installation. Joystick Inboard can be paired with all electronically controlled Volvo Penta diesel engines from 110 hp to 900 hp in twin applications.
Volvo Penta Boating Challenge
To highlight the company’s commitment to Easy Boating, Volvo Penta’s Hanna Ljungqvist, marine product expert and co-host of the Volvo Penta Boating Challenge video series, will lead several sessions throughout the boat show that put the latest innovations to the test. These sessions are open to all attendees and will take place at the company’s booth at the following times:
Thursday, November 3 – 12:00 and 4:00 p.m. ET
Friday, November 4 – 12:00 and 4:00 p.m. ET
