Volvo Penta introduces all-new IPS professional platform

Volvo Penta is introducing the new Inboard Performance System (IPS) professional platform – the next evolution in their fully integrated helm-to-propeller experience. Targeted for 2025, this groundbreaking innovation offers unparalleled comfort, performance, and sustainability for a new class of marine vessels. 

Building upon the revolutionary efficiency of IPS, this new platform promises a powerful and flexible solution for professional vessels and superyachts from 25 to 55+ meters with top speed from 12-40 knots. The new, larger and versatile propulsion package is a true piece of state-of-the-art engineering – prepared for a range of energy sources, while also featuring a new level of premium support and innovative features. 

“Our passion, experience and history of proven results with Volvo Penta IPS are an integral part of our ongoing technology development – with the aim to reach new heights with this new professional platform,” says Johan Inden, president of Volvo Penta’s marine business. “A new star is emerging in our range, where we are looking forward to delivering our trademark helm-to-propeller experience to a whole new class of vessels. It is designed to improve on our own high standards – with world class performance, efficiency, flexibility – and a people first approach in mind.” 

Volvo Penta IPS: a new level of sustainable experience 

The Volvo Penta IPS professional platform introduces a brand-new premium level of sustainable experience. It features the largest and most powerful platform in the Volvo Penta IPS range – including a new, larger marine drive, Volvo Penta IPS 40. The new drive is designed with a pioneering dual power input concept, which manages the power to the water in the most efficient way, but also acts an important enabler to utilize different combinations of energy sources. 

Starting series production in 2025, the new Volvo Penta IPS 40 drive will be powered by two Volvo Penta D13 engines, paired with a compact after treatment system to comply with the latest IMO Tier III standards. But, the platform is already prepared for a mix of power sources; from combustion engines running on renewable fuels to fully electric or hybrid solutions. The dual power input design offers flexibility and modularity on the journey towards increased sustainability. The new Volvo Penta IPS professional platform is installed as twin, triple or quad, meaning each vessel will have from 4 to 8 power sources. The complete package from helm to propeller is designed, verified and serviced by one integrator – Volvo Penta. 

Volvo Penta IPS has provided a unique and unrivaled experience to a wide range of recreational and professional vessels – with close to 20 years of proven use and over 36,000 units delivered. The system’s unrivaled maneuverability and forward-facing propulsion has delivered outstanding efficiency gains, resulting in up to 40% longer cruising range, 20% higher top speed and faster acceleration – compared to a traditional inboard shaft installation. The new Volvo Penta IPS professional platform builds on this legacy and continues to push the boundaries of innovation, efficiency, and sustainability even further – now to a new class of vessels. 

Meeting the demands of professional vessels 

The new Volvo Penta IPS professional platform is type approved and designed for heavy-duty commercial applications. It is expected to deliver up to 30% savings in fuel consumption and emissions compared to a traditional inboard shaft installation. Through a new efficiency-driven feature, the system can automatically start and stop individual engines based on power needed for each given situation, optimizing fuel consumption and engine running hours, leading to extended service and maintenance intervals.

The professional Volvo Penta IPS experience includes an enhanced level of premium service and support – from helm to propeller. Backed by its worldwide authorized service network, Volvo Penta will offer global parts availability and 24/7 customer support. Advanced connectivity will enable predictive maintenance, remote diagnostics and remote software download, all contributing to the premium level support and increased uptime. 

Next steps towards delivery in 2025 

Volvo Penta is carrying out in-house development to ensure thorough in-water testing using its own passenger high-speed ferry test boat, strategically located near its marine test facility in Gothenburg, Sweden. Rigorous testing is in progress to ensure the durability and performance of the propulsion package, with field tests in an offshore-energy crew transfer vessel serving as the subsequent phase leading up to the anticipated 2025 delivery. 

“The new Volvo Penta IPS is a powerful platform that will provide the ultimate helm-to-propeller experience. It builds on a rich tradition of forward-thinking Volvo Penta design that puts people at the heart,” Johan says. “We are eager to expand this 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.”