Volvo Penta said it is now partnering with French catamaran builder Fountaine-Pajot on its new prototype electromobility technology.
Electromobility is a general term for the development of electric-powered drivetrains designed to shift vehicle design away from fossil fuels and carbon gas emissions. Volvo Penta said in a statement that the initiative is being driven by its “belief that the needs of environmental sustainability and customer requirements are getting ever closer, as electrified options become increasingly feasible.”
“This collaboration with Fountaine-Pajot is a strong endorsement of the faith in the market for this type of new technology and our ability to deliver a viable solution,” said Johan Inden, president of Region Europe at Volvo Penta, in the statement. “Fountaine-Pajot’s wealth of knowledge, closeness to its customers and data regarding how boat owners use their vessels is proving invaluable in helping to deliver a real-world proof-of-concept, and in delivering an electric solution that gives significant benefits to customers.”
The Volvo system will be installed in a Fountaine-Pajot Lucia 40 sailing catamaran. It will be the first demonstration boat fitted with the system. The installation and subsequent sea trials will be held over the coming months, where the system’s performance and durability will be fine-tuned.
“There is a significant and growing proportion of our customer base that is looking for greater on-board living convenience, lower maintenance, increased sustainability and a more natural sailing experience,” said Vincent Laigo, head of design office at Fountaine-Pajot, in the statement. “We believe that the new electric technology being developed by Volvo Penta will answer many of these customer aspirations.”
A more in-depth review of the new technology will be published in the coming months, said the company, as Volvo Penta moves “to lift the lid on the latest innovation” during fall 2019.
