Volvo-Penta's IPS - A revolution in marine propulsion

by Bob Wonders on 12 Jul 2010 I first came into contact with what was then the remarkably innovative Volvo Penta IPS (Inboard Propulsion System) in the United States about four-years ago. Frankly, I was not sure what to make of this system, which appeared to be something between an inboard system and a standard stern drive set up.

Well, that's probably not a very accurate description for a system which, according to Volvo Penta Oceania, has taken the market by storm.

Several of Australia's best-known manufacturers are now offering Volvo Penta IPS on a range of their vessels, including Maritimo, Riviera, Noosa Cat, Palm Beach Motor Yachts, Sailfish, IMAX and Revolution Yachts.

Whether the chosen vessel is a sport cruiser, big game boat, flybridge cruiser or motor yacht, Volvo Penta says its can offer an IPS solution in a horsepower range along the lines of the traditional shaft drive.

There are now three IPS versions now in production, representing nine engine models that can be installed as twin, triple or quad set ups for boats up to 30.0-metres in length. Since 2005, more than 11,000 IPS units have been sold, with the Australian market taking a major share with in excess of 500 units sold to date.

Volvo Penta claims a number of advantages are there for the taking by those who chose IPS; up to 30 percent lower fuel consumption, less horsepower for the given performance, superior cruising range, lower noise and vibration levels. They're advantages every boat owner would be happy to accept.

The system also leaves more useable internal volume in a given boat size and has the superb joystick maneuvering capability and digital positioning system to make docking an incredibly simple task.

Volvo Penta's 'big grunt' IPS engines, rated from 800hp to 1200hp are proving to be sought after models, particularly by the big boat manufacturers like Maritimo and Riviera.

Although the IPS system has a 'leg', where the propeller provides the power to the boat, installation of the engine is totally unlike that of a stern drive unit. Stern drive engines are reversed, in that the flywheel is positioned aft to hook up with the lower unit, or leg.

Volvo Penta IPS engines are installed in the normal automotive-style manner, with the flywheel forward. Naturally, there is no propeller shaft and the system does away with the need for rudders. When linked with the joystick, it makes driving and steering the boat an easy and simple task.

I don't think penning a few words about the Volvo Penta IPS does it justice; my advice would be to get aboard a boat with the IPS installed and try it first hand.

You will be impressed, I'm confident of that.

For further information, or to check out dealers with Volvo Penta IPS boats in stock, contact Volvo Penta Oceania, Brisbane, telephone (07) 3726-1500.