Volvo is on line to overtake with its sports diesel

Volvo PentaŽs new 5-cylinder D3-190

The compact D3 from Volvo Penta is quick, light, quiet and clean. It's why it has quickly gained large market share since it was brought onto the market 2 years ago. Volvo Penta is now refining the D3 series. The new D3-190 with 140kw and 190hp also has Aquamatic and a reverse gear unit for shaft drives.

Same performance, less fuel
Volvo Penta's D3 is based on a modern straight 5 cylinder diesel motor with an aluminium block and is equipped with the latest technology such as the electronically controlled Common Rail direct injection system, turbo charger with variable geometry with four valve technology. Thanks to these innovations the D3 has the same performance figures as comparable alternatives, be they petrol or diesel. "The D3 offers the same performance as like for like petrol engines or outboards, but uses less fuel. Compared to outboards the D3 is more reliable, has a much higher re-sale value and is up to 50% quieter. Whether as Aquamatic or shaft drive in both motorboat or on a yacht the D3 has shown itself to be an excellent performer. Even in the USA, a market dominated by petrol engines, the D3 was accepted very favorably.” So claims Martin Vansvik Volvo's project director.

Host of advantages
The new D3 motors with their 140kw and 190hp have the same weight and measurements as the lesser performing D3 models. The unit D3-190 with its DP-S duo-prop unit weighs 330kg, less than an Aquamatic petrol engine and only 50kg more than an outboard with the same output. In comparison to the outboards on the market the D3 Aquamatic engines offer a host of advantages; a lower centre of gravity in relation to the bow for greater seaworthiness, lower noise, reduced danger of being stolen and better rear view visibility.

Passing new emission regulations
The electronically regulated Common Rail injection system and the turbocharger with variable geometry deliver the impressive economy. The engine maintains an exact and consistent delivery of the fuel despite the sailing conditions. Not only is the fuel economy assured but also the amount of exhaust fumes is greatly reduced. The D3 passes the emission regulations that will come into force in The EU and USA in 2006. The high torque of up to 380nm and the modern electronic motor management system helps the motor to react immediately to any command. Automatic belt tensioners and auto-valves reduce the requests for maintenance and make annual inspections much easier. The D3 is available in the single or duo-prop unit. For use in shaft drives Volvo Penta produces a wide variety of reverse gear units and a number of tailor- made drive systems for all applications.

Homepage: www.volvopenta.com