For the sixth time, Volvo Penta will be the official supplier to the Volvo Ocean Race, providing each of the Volvo Ocean 65 sailing boats with a D2-75 engine.
These engines are equipped with Saildrive, hands-on engine maintenance and support, as well as additional power during the race stopovers.
Designed for the toughest of conditions, the engines have already done one lap around the world, covering approximately 39,000 nautical miles during the 2014-15 race. The 65 boats will race around the world for a second lap of 46,000 nautical miles.
Mark Turner, the chief operating officer of the Volvo Ocean Race says: ‘The conditions of the Volvo Ocean Race are extreme and not only push the boats and sailing crew to the limit but also all the equipment. We need to ensure everything on-board is one hundred percent reliable.
‘These boats have been built for two editions of the race and we have so much faith in the condition of the engines that we have not replaced them; we are confident they are up for a second trip around the world.’
Reliable power source at sea
Each of the Volvo Ocean 65 boats will be equipped with one D2-75 engine for both auxiliary and propulsion needs. The engine is there when needed as a primary propulsion source, for safe navigation in and out of harbours, as well as a potential lifesaving instrument in case of an emergency.
During the actual race, the gearboxes are sealed, but the engine is used to power the boats’ total demand for electricity for computers, navigation equipment, lights and communication units onboard. Additionally, the engine onboard provides power to the batteries to run the water maker, which converts salt water into drinking water. The engine delivers the onboard energy required through two, 24 volt alternators which stores the energy in two lithium Ion batteries.
It also supplies the power to the hydraulic system for the canting keel. The canting keel, which provides extra counterweight when sailing, is moved by hydraulic cylinders which are powered by an engine-driven, hydraulic pump.
Volvo Penta also provides hands-on technical expertise to the race organisation and sailing teams.
