The order is one of the largest for Volvo Penta’s marine operations in the region and is an important breakthrough in the commercial boat market in Turkey.
The Turkish buyer is the shipping company IDO (Istanbul Seabuses and Fast Ferries Inc.) – one of the largest ferry shipping companies in Istanbul, with a population of nine million. At present, IDO operates 80 ferries in Istanbul and the Sea of Marmara and transports 90 million passengers and five million cars annually. The new Volvo Penta engines will be installed in five large ferry boats that are under construction and which IDO expects will be placed in traffic next year.
Efficient power with low emissions
The engines are 16-liter D16MG engines (429 kWe, 1500 rpm) and are built together with generators (gensets) to provide diesel-electric power for the ferries. Gensets significantly reduce noise and vibrations in the ship – an important comfort factor in ferries. Another major advantage of the installation is that the engines can be started one at a time depending on power requirements and the degree of efficiency needed at the time. Combined with efficient thrusters, this results in a propulsion system with considerably lower fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.
Strong growth in Turkey
With 74 million inhabitants, Turkey’s economic development is positive, with growth of 6 to 8 percent in recent years. The Turkish shipbuilding industry is booming and is fully booked until 2011. Volvo Penta has a strong position in the marine market and demand for large marine and industrial engines is increasing.
