The future of ferries – Volvo Penta IPS professional platform

Optimizing ferry operations with intelligent efficiency

With fixed routes and schedules, the nature of ferry operations presents numerous opportunities for improved performance and efficiency. The Volvo Penta IPS professional platform is designed to optimize ferry propulsion, ensuring smooth and cost-effective performance while maximizing uptime and securing schedule.  

Eco Mode - real-time optimization for ferry operators

A key intelligent feature of the system, Eco Mode, automatically starts and stops individual engines based on the power required for each situation. This optimizes fuel consumption and engine running hours while prolonging the vessel operation time between required engine maintenance, service and overhauls. Eco Mode suits ferry operators particularly well, since they spend considerable operating time at low-speed cruising, which aligns perfectly with the operating conditions where Eco Mode delivers the greatest efficiency benefits.  

“The Volvo Penta IPS professional platform introduces a new design with dual power input and Eco Mode, enhancing efficiency, especially during low-speed cruising and maneuvering, said Jacob Vierø, Senior Global Sales Project Manager at Volvo Penta. “Our research shows that passenger vessels operate mostly at idle or low speeds, where traditional propulsion systems are inefficient. By integrating multiple smaller engines with intelligent management, we dynamically adjust power to match load demands, optimizing fuel consumption and engine running hours – reducing total cost of ownership.”

Future-proof operations with flexible ferry propulsion

The Volvo Penta IPS professional platform is ideal for ferry operators who want to future-proof their fleets. The flexibility of the IPS professional platform makes it easy to adapt to new technology and power needs. The dual power input design offers flexibility and seamless integration with combustion engines, while also being prepared for the next steps of hybrid or fully electric propulsion. The IPS professional platform is designed to adapt as business needs evolve over time, supporting ferry operators with improved efficiency, meeting new standards and regulations and aligning with long-term business strategies.

Enhanced maneuverability and docking precision

The Volvo Penta IPS professional platform’s intuitive controls and intelligent features, such as Joystick Docking and Assisted Docking, enable captains to maneuver with precision and control and to dock with time efficiency, hence saving total journey time. The forward-facing dual-propeller design provides a longer cruising range and faster acceleration compared to traditional inboard setups. 

Volvo Penta expertise in ferry propulsion

Through a collaborative approach during design and installation, Volvo Penta ensures that the Volvo Penta IPS professional platform is optimized for the customer’s specific operational needs.  

Volvo Penta is leveraging nearly 20 years of proven experience, with close to 40,000 Volvo Penta IPS units delivered globally. Volvo Penta’s strong legacy, and a global network of well-established service providers, means Volvo Penta can be confident that the platform provides an unparalleled premium experience for ferry operators.  

“The Volvo Penta IPS professional platform offers ferry operators a smart and flexible way to run their fleets,” Vierø said. “Customers that choose this platform have the full support of Volvo Penta, wherever their ferries must travel. After two decades of Volvo Penta IPS success, we are confident we can provide an unparalleled experience to ferry operators, as well as the peace of mind that comes with unrivaled collaboration and support.”