Volvo Penta 1950

1950-1959

The 50s was a decade of rapid development in products and business for Penta and the company developed into a truly international operation with an extensive network of dealers all around the globe. The world’s first serial production turbo diesel was introduced in 1954 and subsequently followed by the first charged air-cooled marine diesel two years later.

1954 – Turbo Diesel

1954 – Turbo Diesel

The world’s first serial production turbo diesel was introduced in 1954 and subsequently followed by the first charged air-cooled marine diesel two years later.

1958 – Extended range

1958 – Extended range

The engine range was extended, and one of our new products was the MD1 – the world’s smallest direct injected diesel with a revolutionary reverse gear.

Volvo Penta Aquamatic

1959 – The Volvo Penta Aquamatic

When Volvo Penta introduced the Aquamatic drive at the New York Boat Show in 1959, it was a revolution in the boating industry. The Aquamatic managed to combine the benefits of inboard and outboard engines. The solution is robust, relatively fuel efficient and located inside the boat, protected from wind, weather and water. In addition, the shaft, propeller and steering can be integrated. The maneuverability is excellent and the drive can be folded up to avoid grounding.

1959 – Jumpstarting the Revolution

1959 – Jumpstarting the Revolution

The man behind the Aquamatic, Jim Wynne, started off as a marine engineer and test driver. It was his inventiveness that resulted in the new propulsion system, a system that went on to become a true revolution for the boating industry. The first ideas were created in his garage but it wasn't until he met Volvo Penta’s Harald Wiklund that the project took off for real. In this short clip, we’re treated to Jim's demonstration of both his test driving skills as well as the power and unique properties of the Aquamatic Sterndrive – while jumping.