In a recent announcement, the Volvo Group outlined a plan to hit science-based targets in order to become a net-zero emissions operation, citing a project to develop and commercialize fuel-cell systems — with commercial trucks as the initial focus.
To do its part, Volvo Penta says it is significantly accelerating its own sustainability projects to reach zero emissions via fossil-free, renewable fuels, electric and hybrid technology. To meet these goals, they have announced that Seven Marine outboard production will be halted and phased out once current demand is met.
“We want to send a clear message,” said Volvo Penta president Heléne Mellquist in a statement,
“Volvo Penta does foresee that the outboard segment will continue to be relevant for the Marine Leisure market, but we believe that the indisputable need to drive advancements in sustainable technology must be our main focus. This is why, for the time being, the exploration of new technology together with the development of our core business, such as Volvo Penta IPS and sterndrives, will be the center of our efforts.”
Seven Marine’s current outboard customer base will still see support via full warranty and parts responsibility from Volvo Penta.
“In the future, the world will be powered by a combination of battery-electric and fuel-cell electric vehicles, along with other renewable fuels to some extent. The formation of our fuel-cell joint venture is an important step in shaping a world we want to live in,” said Martin Lundstedt, president and CEO of the Volvo Group.
