The product line based on Volvo Penta Ips transmissions is growing. Following the launch of hybrid solutions, fully electric versions powered by original batteries or generators are about to be launched
Initially developed for the commercial marine sector, this new Volvo Penta “IPS Electric” range includes five drivelines and complements the hybrid electric solutions introduced in early 2024.
Together, they offer customers a wide selection of solutions tailored to different operational needs and work cycles. In this new offering, electric motors are directly coupled to the “IPS” transmissions and can be configured with dual, triple, or quadruple thrust systems, ensuring the availability of all the functional systems designed by Volvo Penta and proven over a period of over 20 years in over 40,000 applications.
Among the advantages of the “IPS” solution is its efficiency, as the forward-facing propeller pulls the boat through the water rather than pushing it, ensuring the propeller always operates in an optimal environment. This results in quick and responsive acceleration, tight turning circles, and improved trajectory control—all benefits that will obviously also be offered by the new electric solutions.
The latter are expected to be marketed starting in the fourth quarter of 2025 with the “IPS900E” series capable of handling power outputs of up to 515 kilowatts, approximately 700 horsepower, followed by the “IPS650E” series with 374 kilowatts, approximately 500 horsepower.
The goal is to electrify all five transmissions in the “IPS” range, allowing for power outputs ranging from a minimum of 220 kilowatts (300 horsepower) to a maximum of 1,100 kilowatts (approximately 1,500 horsepower) through quadruple installations. The entire electric range will include propeller-steering functionality, a joystick-controlled “Electronic Vessel Control” system, a dynamic positioning system, an autopilot, and assisted docking.
Operators will also benefit from a fully integrated human-machine interface that allows for drive mode selection and system monitoring via the energy management system. Available modes include “Pure Electric,” “Hybrid Electric,” and “Hybrid Fuel.” Alongside the new transmissions, Volvo Penta will also offer a renewed range of marine generator sets, both fixed-speed and variable-speed, to provide a primary power source for the generators or backup for the batteries.
The units are capable of supplying power on demand to the electric transmission, enabling redundancy and optimizing operating hours and maintenance intervals. The “IPS” offering will provide highly scalable and standardized solutions, ranging from traditional and internal combustion propulsion systems to fully electric and hybrid powertrains, offering all the necessary support for each system’s proper operation, including energy storage systems with related charging and energy management systems.
Title: Volvo Penta Ips Transmissions, Fully Electric Boats from 300 to 1,500 HP
