Volvo Penta to install its propulsion platform in two dual-power Sanlorenzo yachts

Volvo Penta and Sanlorenzo will bring Volvo Penta’s IPS professional platform – the technology and propulsion platform for commercial marine vessels and superyachts – to two dual-power Sanlorenzo yachts, the SX120 and the SX132.

The two models are expected to launch in 2025 and 2027 respectively and will be the first superyachts installed with the IPS professional platform.The IPS platform has been designed to offer comfort, performance and sustainability for a new class of marine vessels and superyachts. Equipped with new intelligent technology features and designed for enhanced sustainability, the IPS professional platform delivers up to 30% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions.

“When adopting new solutions into superyachts, we must always consider the experience of owners and the captain. The IPS professional platform not only delivers new levels of efficiency and flexibility but also elevates the yachting experience through the fully integrated helm-to-propeller platform. Intelligent features combined with the platform’s unique design provide additional comfort and peace of mind,” said Johan Inden, president of Volvo Penta Marine. “Our collaboration with Sanlorenzo marks a new journey toward decarbonization in the yachting sector. We’re excited to see the launch of the first IPS professional platform-equipped superyacht in 2025.”

According to the two companies, the compact design of the IPS platform frees up onboard space and reduces perceived noise by up to 50%. Additionally, the forward-facing propeller design and efficient dual power input reduce vibration levels on board.

Highlights of the new platform include a flexible dual-power drive system and intelligent power management. The solution can be installed as a twin, triple, or quad, enabling a mix of power sources to meet the yacht’s needs. Each yacht can have between four and eight power sources from internal combustion engines running renewable fuels to fully electric or hybrid solutions. The flexibility to select the type of power source and engine enables unparalleled efficiency.

Additionally, Eco Mode is a new smart feature that will leverage onboard sensors to automatically start/stop engines based on the power needs of the captain. The platform will consider optimal fuel consumption and engine run time hours to engage the engine for the lowest time for a given scenario. This will improve efficiency and extend service/maintenance intervals.

The IPS professional platform also includes intelligent features tailored to support captains, such as Assisted Docking and Dynamic Positioning as well as diagnostic information provided through a glass cockpit helm display.

The introduction of the IPS professional platform into Sanlorenzo’s yachts forms part of Volvo Penta’s efforts to integrate sustainability into its products. The two companies plan to explore multiple solutions and paths including renewable fuels, hybrid and electric technology, fuel cells and efficiency-driven solutions for yacht and propulsion design.

Sanlorenzo will launch the first 50 Steel yacht in 2024, equipped with a modular Reformer Fuel Cell system capable of transforming green methanol into hydrogen and then into electricity to power domestic loads, such as lighting, air conditioning and the kitchen. The system will lay the groundwork for the introduction of the first superyacht powered solely by green methanol by the end of the decade.

“The wishes of the customer have always been a fundamental part of Sanlorenzo’s philosophy. We begin at the intersection of technology and sustainability, combining the latest industry innovations with custom features and design that reflect the customer’s individual style. As the marine industry moves toward decarbonization, we continue to pursue a premier experience that adheres to our vision of a sustainable future,” said Massimo Perotti, chairman and CEO of Sanlorenzo. “As a committed project partner, Sanlorenzo is proud to produce the first custom yachts equipped with the all-new IPS professional platform and contribute to the journey of decarbonizing the marine industry.”

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