The new Volvo Penta D3 offers performance that is adapted for a high-speed motorboat. Acceleration from standstill is very fast – the maximum torque is achieved at 1,750 rpms. The maximum power output of 130 or 160 horsepower, combined with an engine weight of only 215 kg, provides ideal performance and a high top speed.
“When we began with this project, we set high demands for power, weight and compact external measurements. With D3, we have exceeded our requirements on all counts and the practical tests also show highly positive results,” says Tommy Källberg, technical project manager at Volvo Penta.
State-of-the-art technology
There is no lack of high technology. The fuel system is electronically controlled common-rail direct injection, working with a pressure of 1,600 bars. Twin manifolds per cylinder, combined with four-valve technology, ensures efficient fuel flow. The manifolds are also located one on either side, resulting in a rapid mix of fuel and air. The turbocharger is a VGT model, meaning that the geometry is changed according to requirements.
“At low rpm, a small turbo that can start up quickly functions best, while at high rpms, the turbo should be larger to enable utilization of the large gas flow that exists. The VGT turbo on the new D3 has flexible blades that can be angled, thereby changing the geometry, or the size of the turbo as required. The blades are controlled electronically and the control unit can quickly and precisely adapt the turbo to give maximum power in any situation. In this way, the D3 can generate rapid acceleration straight from low rpms, combined with high maximum power.
Light, strong and compact
The basic design is a straight, five-cylinder diesel engine with turbo and charge-air cooler. Five cylinders generate uniform and smooth propulsion without the need of balance axles. Features include a substantial ladder frame between the sump and engine block, which firms ups and handles the forces generated.
By using aluminum throughout, the weight can be kept low without jeopardizing durability. The complete engine package, with SX Aquamatic drive, weighs only 310 kg.
Compact external measurements are important because the new D3 is to be used in smaller boats with limited installation space.
“The D3 is very efficiently packaged. We have placed the external components to make the engine a more compact unit. We have also designed each part according to the space available. For example, we have developed an entirely new type of heat exchanger that is divided in order to occupy less space. As a result of the divided flywheel, with inbuilt power balance, we do not need damping in the transmission, which saves 10 centimeters in length,” says Tommy Källberg.
Low fuel consumption and low emissions
The advanced and fully electronically controlled fuel and turbo system provides highly efficient fuel use, which in turn leads to low fuel consumption and low emissions.
“The engine will meet the overall requirements that are planned for introduction in Europe and the US in 2006. In terms of fuel consumption, we have very good results, particularly compared with outboards,” says Tommy Källberg.
Aquamatic and inboards
The D3 is being introduced initially with an SX drive and later as an inboard, with hydraulically geared transmission. The SX drive has a single propeller and is very powerful, enabling it to handle the engine’s considerable torque. Power steering is a standard feature for safe operation with a positive feel. As an inboard motor, a 110-horsepower model, specially adapted for large sailing boats and other displacement boats, is also being launched.
The D3 is also being equipped with EVC, Volvo Penta’s new electronic CAN-bus platform, in which the engine, regulation and instruments – as well as other functions in the boat – communicate and exchange information.
Technical data
Engine designation: D3-110
Crankshaft power: 110 hp at 3,000 rpm
Maximum torque: 280 Nm at 1,750 rpm
Configuration: Straight five-cylinder diesel with turbo and charge-air cooler
Alternator :140 A
Cylinder volume: 2.4 liters
Weight, excl. trans: 215 kg
Emissions: Will meet future comprehensive specifications to be introduced in Europe and the US in 2006.
Engine designation: D3-130
Crankshaft power: 130 hp at 4,000 rpm
Maximum torque: 280 Nm at 1,750 rpm
Configuration: Straight five-cylinder diesel with turbo and charge-air cooler
Alternator: 140 A
Cylinder volume: 2.4 liters
Weight, excl. trans: 215 kg
Weight with SX drive: 310 kg
Emissions: Will meet future comprehensive specifications to be introduced in Europe and the US in 2006.
Engine designation: D3-160
Crankshaft power: 160 hp at 4,000 rpm
Max. torque: 340 Nm at 1,750 rpm
Configuration: Straight five-cylinder diesel with turbo and charge-air cooler
Alternator: 140 A
Cylinder volume: 2.4 liter
Weight, excl. transm: 215 kg
Weight with SX drive: 310 kg
Emissions: Will meet future comprehensive specifications to be introduced in Europe and the US in 2006.
