New Volvo Penta composite drive

Volvo Penta of the Americas introduced a new petrol sterndrive package at the Miami Boat Show that weighs less and promises greater strength

Volvo Penta of the Americas introduced a new sterndrive package that it hopes will replace many outboards on the transoms of fishing boats. Its new Ocean Series, featuring four different engines for boats from 18 to 30ft, garnered an Innovation Award at the Miami show because of the unique qualities. The XDP drive is made of a high-impact composite that Volvo claims is indestructible. Beyond that, says the company, the XDp weighs less than a traditional drive, has a more hydrodynamic profile, and comes standard with a built-in “Neutra Salt” automatic engine flushing system. Both the engines and drives were also designed to be easy to maintain.

In a press conference today, Volvo Penta of the Americas president Clint Moore said that the company would be aiming the Ocean Series at high-end fishermen who traditionally use outboards on their boats. He believes that the four-stroke engine’s low fuel consumption, bulletproof exterior and high performance will attract anglers. The company had the new Ocean Series available for testing on four name-brand fishing boats at the Miami show, a Pursuit 2460 Denali, Seaswirl 2601, Stingray 200 MS, and Wellcraft 22 Walkaround.

Latest