Hybrid coming to Volvo Penta

Volvo Penta is talking up the prospect of emission-free power boating. The recently announced project combines electric propulsion and conventional turbo-diesel Inboard Performance System (IPS) powertrain to create a marine hybrid – a la Toyota’s Prius on the water.

Volvo Penta says the system is designed to offer part-time zero emission running for entry into environmentally sensitive zones, as well as “offering enhanced onboard comfort and boat handling characteristics”.

In essence, the system integrates electric motors in-line with existing Volvo Penta IPS turbo-diesel power units. A large lithium-ion battery bank stores electrical generated during normal use for emission-free running.

The battery bank is modular which Volvo Penta says “allows customers to tailor the design and performance of both commercial and leisure boats”.

“More battery capacity offers extended electric-only cruising, and – with frequent external charging – the use of smaller diesel engines and lower fuel costs. With the electric motor and batteries maintenance-free – and the diesel engine operating for fewer hours – the cost of servicing should also be noticeably lower.

“Volvo Penta will continue to support customers in tailoring a prop-to-helm configuration based on the specific application needs,” the company states.

Volvo Penta says the IPS hybrid system is planned initially for its 8-13 litre engine range and will be suitable for powering vessels such as ferries, pilot and supply boats, as well as pleasure craft.

The systems will use “proven hybrid technology” first developed within the Volvo Group, which Volvo Penta is now adapting and certifying for marine applications.

“A hybrid provides a flexible solution, one that maintains the high efficiency offered by the IPS system and adds the ability to run in zero emission environments,” says Niklas Thulin, Volvo Penta’s Director of Electromobility.

“With full torque from the electric motor available instantly, the boat will maintain the responsiveness and controllability that IPS is famous for in electric-only mode, as well as offering the ability to run at 10-12kts, Thulin stated.

The timeline Volvo Penta suggests is a European debut in 2021, although local big boat builders suggest the adoption of the technology is further out.

“We are an early adopter of technology but this technology is not yet on our radar,” Riviera spokesperson, Stephen Milne, told boatsales.com.au.

“We’re strong proponents of Volvo Penta IPS technology. The packaging of the additional systems required for the proposed hybrid set-up is something we’re yet to look at in detail,” he stated.

Zero emission lakes are increasingly common in Europe. Countries like Norway have also already announced zero emission marine zones. From 2026, Norwegian world heritage fjords will only be able to be accessed via electric-powered craft.