Volvo Penta has launched its new fully electric marine propulsion range, built on the proven Volvo Penta IPS platform. Initially developed for the marine commercial sector, this new Volvo Penta IPS electric range includes five drivelines, aimed to deliver enhanced efficiency, precision and flexibility.
The Volvo Penta IPS Electric (E) range is a powerful complement to the hybrid electric (H) solutions introduced in 2024. Together, they offer a broad selection of “fit-for-purpose” solutions tailored to diverse operational needs and duty cycles.
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Plug and play electric propulsion
In this new, fully electric marine propulsion offer, the electric motor is directly coupled to the Volvo Penta IPS driveline and available in twin, triple, or quadruple configurations. This opens possibilities for a broader range of vessels to harness the benefits of the Volvo Penta IPS system – such as Electronic Vessel Control (EVC), forward-facing propulsion, and outstanding manoeuvrability.
‘We have built up strong expertise based on twenty years of efficient operation with more than 40,000 Volvo Penta IPS drivelines in operation, as well as recent successful market pilots in marine electrification,’ says Anna Müller, President of Volvo Penta. ‘Our aim with this new range is to deliver a plug and play electric propulsion solution, keeping the uniqueness of our core competence, but also designed to scale together with thirrd party integrators.’
Forward-facing efficiency
Among the most notable benefits of the Volvo Penta IPS solution is its forward-facing efficiency, which pulls the vessel through water, rather than pushing it. When paired with electric motors, this delivers a high-performance, zero-emissions solution for a wide range of operational profiles.
Further efficiency gains can be realised by the system’s responsive acceleration, tight turning radius, superior grip, and precision control. For operators, the result is more silent and smooth journeys with minimal environmental impact.
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All-new electric (E) propulsion range
Starting in Q4 2025, Volvo Penta will roll out the IPS900E (up to 515 kW), followed by models like the IPS650E (up to 374 kW). The aim is to electrify all five drivelines in the Volvo Penta IPS range, targeting power outputs from 220 kW to 1.1 MW per driveline – scaling up to 4.5 MW for quad installations.
The complete electric range will include full “helm-to-propeller” functionality, maintaining the manoeuvrability and control that define the Volvo Penta IPS experience. This includes Volvo Penta’s Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) system, with premium features like Joystick Driving, Dynamic Positioning System, Autopilot, and Assisted Docking.
Operators will benefit from a fully integrated Human-Machine Interface (HMI) that enables seamless drive mode selection and system monitoring via the Energy Management System (EMS). Available modes include Pure Electric, Hybrid Electric, and Hybrid Fuel, enabling ease of operation and a seamless experience at the helm.
Pictures by Volvo Penta.
