The technology giant said that the decision has been made underpinned by the success of hybrid and all-electric technology it has already introduced.
“Volvo Penta is embracing the electric transformation and will be at the forefront in delivering compelling business cases to customers using this new technology,” said Björn Ingemanson, president of Volvo Penta.
“We will take a full systems supplier approach helping our customers in the transition to the new technology. This will happen application-by-application, on the basis that the business case for switching to electric will differ across our many customer segments.”
Long-term transition
Mr Ingemanson cautioned though that this is the start of a long-term transition because diesel and gasoline-powered primary drive systems will remain the most appropriate power source for many applications for years to come.
As part of this increased commitment to electrification, Volvo Penta has restructured its organisation to accelerate the switch towards electrified power and has committed to an ambitious ramping up of its electrification investment programme.
An electromobility development-and-test laboratory has also been established at its Swedish headquarters.
Mr Ingemanson said that as a Tier 1 partner to many leading equipment manufacturers in the marine and industrial segments, the company can deploy this technical knowledge help manufacturers develop advanced, robust and successful products going forward.
By Anne-Marie Causer
