Volvo Penta’s strongest ever Inboard Performance System repowers Azimut Yachts 77S

The collaboration between prestigious boat-builder, Azimut Yachts, and Volvo Penta is moving up a gear as the Italian brand has selected the Swedish company’s new and highest performance propulsion system, the D13-IPS1350. This model will provide all the features that the innovative IPS system is known for, including superior handling, excellent fuel efficiency, a longer cruising range, reduced emissions, and great onboard comfort with more space, and low noise and vibration.

The move to repower the 77ft vessel with the new D13-IPS1350 builds on the strong bond between the two companies. It follows from the success of the original version of the 77S, which was powered by a previous model from Volvo Penta’s IPS range.

“We are launching the S7, a smaller but similar vessel to the 77S, so we took the opportunity to refresh the bigger boat as well, with the D13-IPS1350,” says Alessandro Rossi, chief technical officer for Azimut Yachts. “The engine has more power and is very fuel efficient, like other IPS models – it is a great choice for the 77S.”

“We have used more carbon fiber which produces a more lightweight boat, and with IPS there is more space in the engine room, so this gives more space on board for a tender or jetski. The combination means that customers have more options to load the boat and keep a good performance – it increases the flexibility of options.”

He adds: “Maneuverability and safety are excellent with IPS, even in rough seas, and the stability adds to the enjoyment. Overall, we have created the comfort of a mega-yacht. We are the first company to have triple installation of the new D13-IPS1350, which is very exciting.”

Strength of collaboration

Azimut Yachts was founded in the 1960s and is based near Turin in north west Italy. It is part of the international Azimut Benetti Group and produces several styles of yacht, including superyachts up to 140ft, which are sold all over the world. The company began installing Volvo Penta IPS several years ago in a different model in the S (sport) line, after being impressed at discovering how the system could benefit a vessel’s performance and overall design. The original Azimut 77S was launched to great acclaim at the Cannes Yachting Festival in 2014 and has proved very popular. The new model is powered by triple Volvo Penta D13-IPS1350.

“Customers ask for innovation,” says Rossi. “And investing in innovation with our hull and production methods and Volvo Penta IPS, is a key factor in our success. As an integrated system, IPS is a great match for our project. We have a good relationship with Volvo Penta – we like their products and service, and we can be sure we are getting the best quality that we want. This is the strength of our collaboration.”

Highest performance marine engine

Volvo Penta’s new D13-IPS1350 is a milestone product that sees the company move into the 1000hp engine sector for the first time. It has been designed to be suitable for yachts up to 120ft. The extra power of the 13-liter engine is matched by an upgraded IPS pod drive, and the integrated package provides power equivalent to a 1350hp inboard engine. It enables vessels to reach speeds of up to 42 knots.

Volvo Penta IPS is a complete system from helm to prop, linking the engine, driveline, propulsion and electronics, for seamless operation. It provides a longer cruising range, higher top speed, reduced fuel consumption and emissions, reduced vibration, and lower onboard noise levels, compared to a traditional inboard shaft engine. The configuration also allows for more space on board and versatility of interior layout.

“The collaboration we have with Azimut Yachts is progressing well and it is proof of the success of the original 77S that they have chosen our new D13-IPS1350 to power their new model,” says Nicola Pomi, Volvo Penta’s head of the marine market for Italy, Spain and Portugal. “It will be exciting to see how much more performance our new IPS system gives their yacht. Azimut continues to move forward with an innovative approach, as do we at Volvo Penta, so our brand philosophies have the same focus in producing the best quality for customers.”