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Volvo Penta will debut its new integrated IPS Hybrid propulsion system for the marine commercial sector at the Seawork 2026 exhibition.
The platform is engineered for a wide range of commercial applications, including passenger ferries, coast guard vessels, offshore crew transfer vessels, workboats, and short sea and river transport. Designed to maximize uptime, improve operational control, and simplify service responsibility, the system addresses the critical operational needs of professional marine operators.
Hanna Ljungqvist, President of Volvo Penta Marine Business, commented, “Marine commercial operators need solutions they can rely on every day, in every condition. Our IPS Hybrid has been developed to meet those expectations by bringing together the manoeuvrability and efficiency of our IPS platform with integrated hybrid-electric capability in a complete package designed to support uptime, simplify operations and deliver long-term value.”
By delivering a complete helm-to-propeller package through a single supplier, the platform reduces complexity across installation, operation, and servicing. The propulsion, batteries, controls, and energy management systems are designed to function as a cohesive unit, providing operators with a single point of responsibility and a clearer maintenance path.
At the core of the system is Volvo Penta’s Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) platform, which centralizes propulsion and energy management into a single operator interface. Captains receive a real-time overview of energy utilization, charging, battery status, and power flow, alongside features including Joystick Driving, Assisted Docking, and a new 24-inch Type Approved Display (TAD).
This integrated configuration minimizes operator workload in demanding environments, including tight harbours, dock-and-go tasks, or operations near sensitive infrastructure. Precise low-speed handling, responsive manoeuvring, and seamless transitions between power sources ensure predictable vessel control during all operational phases.
The platform also facilitates lower-emission operations and helps operators navigate evolving regulatory frameworks. Offering compatibility with HVO100 fuel alongside compliance with IMO III and EPA Tier 3 standards, the IPS Hybrid delivers an immediate decarbonization pathway while mitigating compliance risks in strictly regulated zones and future procurement frameworks.
The system’s presence at Seawork gives marine commercial operators, shipbuilders, and industry partners a direct opportunity to examine the technology up close and explore how hybrid-electric propulsion can support the next generation of professional marine operations.
Visit Volvo Penta at Seawork 2026, Stand E5 and Berth VB23.
