Volvo Penta unveils helm-to-propeller hybrid-electric package

Volvo Penta has unveiled its innovative helm-to-propeller hybrid-electric package, showcasing an unwavering commitment to advancing the future of marine technology. This market unique offering delivers a fully integrated hybrid-electric package, ensuring seamless operation and an exceptional user experience. The system guarantees impeccable transitions between power modes, enhancing both performance, comfort and operational efficiency.

The hybrid-electric package introduces features such as near-silent cruising, allowing closer proximity to nature; peaceful quiet nights onboard using batteries instead of a generator; and Joystick Driving and Assisted Docking in Electric Mode, making docking, departure and driving smooth and harmonious. Additionally, it allows access to emission-free zones and environmentally sensitive areas, enabling exceptional nature experiences.

“Our vision of technological innovation and efficient design is embodied in the hybrid-electric package, a significant step forward in marine technology, showcasing the future of hybridization and electrification,” said Johan Inden, President of the Marine Business at Volvo Penta.

The Volvo Penta hybrid-electric package is a complete, fully integrated system with Volvo Penta controlling all parts from helm-to-propeller. The system features the full range of Volvo Penta D13 IPS 900/1050/1200/1350 Hybrid, 160 kW electric motor and Volvo Penta optimized batteries, delivering powerful performance, excellent maneuverability, and efficiency. The electric motor and diesel engine work in parallel on the same drive shaft, allowing for smooth Pure Electric drive mode, Hybrid mode, and seamless automatic power transitions. In Cross-Over mode, one diesel engine propel both drives, with the aim to optimize efficiency and prolong the operation time between required engine maintenance. Depending on the chosen drive mode, the system automatically controls whether the boat should be powered by the electric motor, the combustion engine, or both, ensuring seamless and efficient operation.

“Our Volvo Penta hybrid-electric package integrates state-of-the-art technology to deliver exceptional performance. Adapting our unique features for electric – such as DPS, Assisted Docking, and Joystick Driving – for hybrid and electric use, we continue to innovate and explore with the aim to deliver an unrivaled experience on the water,” said Johan Inden. Delivery of the D13 IPS hybrid-electric package is set to begin at the end of 2025.