Volvo Penta IPS

1. 12010sMichael Rybovich & Sons
2. 12020sSpencer

First on record

MarileeMichael Rybovich & Sons hull 1 · 2014

Latest on record

HondaSpencer hull 227 · 2022

IPS, the Inboard Performance System, replaces shaft, strut and rudder with an articulating pod. Each pod goes in through a single opening in the bottom of the hull.^3,4

Each IPS model is named for the conventional inboard power it matches, not the engine's own rating. The most powerful pair the D13, a 12.8-litre in-line six, with the IPS30 pod.^2,4,5

The propellers face forward and work in undisturbed water. Their thrust runs parallel with the hull, so all the power drives the boat forward. Exhaust leaves underwater through the drive, and the pods sit in rubber grommets that isolate gear noise and vibration.^1,4

Helm, joystick and drives are linked by wire, with no mechanical connection to the engine. The joystick can walk a boat sideways and turn her in her own length. Dynamic positioning holds her in place against wind and tide.^3,4

IPS was designed for twin-engine planing boats from 30 to 80 feet running 25 to 45 knots. Volvo Penta says its D13 engine and pod package can increase efficiency by up to 30 percent over similarly powered competitors.^2,4

Sport Fish Mode moves just the stern sideways under engine thrust, for backing down on fish.⁴

Forward-facing props see clean water but add form drag over the lower unit. Rear-facing pods avoid that drag but run in disturbed water. Soundings called the debate a standoff.⁴

The original IPS suits planing hulls only, and Volvo Penta would not allow it in a hull its engineers had not tested. On a hard impact the pod is designed to shear away without breaching the hull, and the lower unit is replaced whole.^3,4