Volvo Penta unveils Forward Drive innovation

by Volvo Penta on 21 Feb 2015 A revolutionary new concept in marine propulsion, the first Volvo Penta Forward Drive (FWD), debuted today at an exclusive event at the Miami International Boat Show.

Opening up a new realm for recreational water sports, the Volvo Penta FWD begins with forward-facing dual counter-rotating props with an adjustable-trim drive. This patented and innovative design pulls the boat through the water rather than pushing, with an undisturbed water flow to the propellers. This clean and efficient propulsion system delivers superior responsiveness, acceleration, fuel economy and versatility, allowing for an array of activities behind the boat, including wakesurfing and wakeboarding.

Drivers will also be able to customize the wake for different ability levels and feel the difference in tighter high-speed turns, as well as more responsive slow-speed maneuvering and docking. Additionally, the forward-facing DuoProp, with counter-rotating propellers, offers a unique and industry-first symmetrical wakeboarding wake and equally shaped wakesurfing wave on your side of choice.

'Our new FWD innovation is the next revolutionary product from Volvo Penta,' said Ron Huibers, president of Volvo Penta of the Americas. 'This exciting new technology will make it easier for families to have more fun on the water and will attract more people into boating and water sports.'

FWD also reduces noise and vibration, and virtually eliminates annoying fumes on deck since engine exhaust is expelled underwater beneath the boat. The adjustable tilt makes it easy to trim the boat for optimum fuel efficiency and comfort when cruising. When at rest with the drive trimmed down, the forward-facing propellers are inboard of the boat making activities like fishing and swimming more practical astern of the boat.

This breakthrough is a result of many years of innovation. 'Volvo Penta has a long and proud tradition of innovation in the boating industry,' said Huibers. 'Our talented engineers pioneered the first sterndrive, the first DuoProp and the first forward-facing propulsion system, Volvo Penta IPS. Now our team has taken all three of those technologies and combined them into another breakthrough innovation with the launch of our new FWD product line.'

The Volvo Penta FWD, coupled with the new-generation marine gas engines, is an unbeatable combination for boatbuilders, providing higher speeds and better performance with a smaller, lighter engine. The engine and drive system are proven and feature accessible service points for easier maintenance. Dealers and boat owners will also benefit from the commonality of parts across the full range of engines and drives.

Most importantly, the builder, dealer and customer have the peace of mind that comes with a fully integrated helm-to-prop solution designed, built and supported by a single manufacturer with an unmatched reputation for customer satisfaction and after-the-sale customer service.

The new Volvo Penta FWD and gas engines are covered by Volvo Penta’s industry-leading warranty with five years of factory protection. The Volvo Penta FWD has been tested and developed with several key boatbuilder partners. New boat models featuring FWD will be available starting in 2015.

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