VOLVO PENTA DEMONSTRATION DAY | Brand new DPI Aquamatic stern drive

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When Volvo Penta introduced the Aquamatic drive in 1959, it combined the benefits of inboard and outboard engines. In 1982, the Aquamatic sterndrive was enhanced with the duoprop, two counter-rotating propellers that together provided high levels of handling and strong grip, transferring the power to the water in a new way.

The Aquamatic sterndrive and propellers are designed to complement the engines, delivering impressive overall performance. As well as increasing the power and reliability, lowering ownership costs and improving performance, Volvo Penta has also added additional features to its latest Aquamatic sterndrive systems.

The new hydraulic clutch allows silent and smooth shifting. It also enables slipping at low engine speeds, resulting in greater manoeuvrability and higher comfort at low boat speeds. “The hydraulic clutch, together with electric steering – now standard for DPI – gives improved joystick docking functionality,” said DPI Engineering Project Manager Jacob Claesson. “It also enables [a] dynamic positioning system to be introduced, which automatically maintains a boat’s heading and position, even during strong currents or windy conditions – ideal when preparing for docking.”

This update also offers longer service intervals, fewer service items and introduces seals that have been designed for longer life. Oil and filter change intervals have been extended from every year to every two years.

Reliability has also been a key part of the update, with a focus on redesigning and reinforcing components to deliver greater reliability. Additional sensors have been introduced for improved diagnostics and monitoring of system health, further aiding reliability. Overall cleanliness has been improved during manufacturing to ensure extended life and reliability for all parts.

Baird Maritime Managing Director Alex Baird was a guest of Volvo Penta in Gothenburg, Sweden, for a day of presentations, product unveilings and test drives.


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