The new model replaces Volvo Penta's successful 10 litre engine. To provide rapid response from low engine speeds it is equipped with a centre-mounted 'twin-entry turbo' with pulse charging, whereby the power in each exhaust pulse provides charge pressure. The completely symmetrical engine is easy to install even in confined spaces.

A front end free from service points allows it to be mounted against the front bulkhead.

It is equipped with Volvo Penta's EMS2 electronic engine management system, which delivers low fuel consumption, minimal exhaust emissions and rapid responsiveness. Engine, controls and instruments are integrated in Volvo Penta's Electronic Vessel Control (EVC), which uses CAN bus technology to replace all traditional cable routing for instruments and controls with a serial data cable.

The DP-500 is available with different angled down reverse gears and V-drives. All gears have electronically controlled shifting integrated with the engine through the EVC system.

The optional low speed function allows transmission slip to reduce boat speed, useful when manoeuvring in confined harbours.

Also new in Hamburg was the Volvo Penta D9 Heavy Duty, available in ratings of 300, 350 and 425hp plus as a complete marine genset. Replacing Volvo Penta's 7 and 10 litre engines for both propulsion and marine auxiliary, the D9 Heavy Duty will suit inland and small passenger ferries, fishing boats and various types of workboats.

Volvo Penta also used the occasion of SMM to launch new D4 and D6 diesel engines for sterndrive installations suiting high speed applications such as fast rescue craft and police patrol boats. With new performance components and optimised turbo, the common rail engines developed by Volvo Penta and launched last year have become 20% more powerful.

The company claims the D6-350 DP with Duoprop drive and 350 hp is the most powerful diesel stern drive on the market.

A mechanical compressor produces a high charge pressure and maximum torque from low speeds which kicks a boat up to planing position. The Aquamatic drive features power steering and counter rotating propellers made of nickel, aluminium and bronze alloy.

The D6-350 DPR, developed specially for high speeds between 47 and 60 knots, is identical to the DP version but has a smaller, lower housing optimised for high speeds and stainless steel propellers. As a single installation alternative to a petrol V8, the D6-350 offers acceleration and cruising speed to match the competition but wins on fuel consumption, reliability and service life.

The D4-260 variant of Volvo Penta's recently launched four cylinder range also appeared at SMM, offering common rail direct injection and four valve technology in a compact, 3.7 litre package.

The D4-260 is available for inboard installations or with Duoprop drive. The Duoprop version is augmented with turbocharging via a mechanical compressor, providing high torque directly from low engine speeds.

The compressor is disengaged at higher engine speeds and the turbo takes over to deliver high power at cruising and top speed.

MJ Information No: 19905