The superiority of forward-facing props

Forward-facing propellers have proved to be superior in terms of performance, drivability and not least – fuel consumption. By working in undisturbed water the propulsion efficiency is far greater than on conventional inboard systems.

The fact that the propeller thrust is aimed horizontally means that all power drives the boat forward. Volvo Penta IPS also enables the use of flat-surface hulls, which means the boat can be designed for minimum resistance.

30% less fuel – 40% longer range
When it comes to fuel economy, the benefits of Volvo Penta IPS are obvious – an impressive 30% possible reduction of fuel consumption at cruising speed compared to inboard shafts. That translates into over 40% longer cruising range, and of course a huge benefit for the environment.

It seems like an impossible combination, but while decreasing fuel consumption, performance is also greatly improved. In a match-up against inboard shafts of the same power, the differences are obvious. The boat equipped with Volvo Penta IPS accelerates much faster, and has a higher top speed.

Excellent onboard comfort
Volvo Penta IPS makes life onboard more pleasureable. The vibration levels are kept low, partly because of the twin counter-rotating propellers that run free of cavitation well under the hull. Furthermore, the installation makes for effective suspension, preventing vibrations from spreading through the system.

Since the exhausts are emitted through the rear of the propulsion unit into the prop wash, they are carried well behind the boat without disturbing life onboard.

The twin counter-rotating propellers face forward and work in undisturbed water. The propeller thrust is parallel with the hull. All power drives the boat forward.

All exhaust fumes are emitted through the pods, into the prop wash and carried well behind the boat for improved onboard comfort.

The propellers are positioned well under the hull to eliminate the risk of air intrusion and cavitation, even in sharp turns and under full acceleration.

Forward-facing propellers, with no exhausts through the hub, minimize the hub diameter. This gives a proportionally much larger active blade area, and better grip in the water.

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The superiority of forward-facing props

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