Volvo Penta kicks off production of world’s most powerful outboard engines

Volvo Penta bought Seven Marine, which makes outboard engines producing 527hp, 577hp and a stonking 627hp straight out of the crate, in 2017 in recognition that performance-focused outboard engines were becoming more popular as the boats they power became larger and heavier.

Related stories: 

In recognition of this, Volvo Penta has already integrated control systems including Electronic Vessel Control, DuoProp twin propellers, joystick docking and driving and the Glass Cockpit multimedia touchscreen control system support into the Seven outboard engines.

All three of Seven Marine’s outboard engines use a 6.2-litre alloy V8 fitted with a 1.9-litre low-blow twin-screw supercharger to produce impressive performance numbers right through the rev range.

The engine isn’t light, though, weighing in at about 500kg in single-prop form despite using carbon-fibre to reduce the weight of the cowlings.

Volvo Penta’s DuoProp twin-propeller system is offered on “cruising” versions of the Seven Marine engines, as the set-up helps to maximise cruise efficiency, low-speed control and top speeds of less than 100km/h.

The flagship 627sv outboard engine, meanwhile, is optimised for running at speeds of more than 140km/h using the specialised GT gearcase.

The engines’ performance numbers are all generated using standard unleaded fuel.

Seven Marine engines are covered by a three-year warranty for recreational use.

The powerful outboard engines were first shown in concept form at the 2011 Miami International Boat Show, with production starting at the original Wisconscoin-based factory in 2013.