Oct 5, 2021

Volvo Penta’s commitment to innovation was on full display at the 2021 International Boatbuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX), as evidenced by multiple awards and participation in the Soundings Trade Only Leadership Summit expert panel.

Volvo Penta was named one of the most innovative companies in the U.S. boating industry for the fourth year in a row by industry trade journal Soundings Trade Only at the 2021 Leadership Summit on September 27. The annual award recognizes companies that are transforming the marine industry through demonstration of community involvement and responsibility, development and technology, work culture, manufacturing processes, sustainability and other initiatives.

Michele Goldsmith, publisher of Soundings Trade Only, commented, “Congratulations to Volvo Penta. This year the submissions were extremely high quality. We applaud them for their continued commitment to innovation within their company and to the various ways that they’re impacting the marine industry through futuristic products, a strong corporate culture and a commitment to give back to the marine industry.”

Volvo Penta was also presented with an Innovation Award from the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Boating Writers International (BWI) for the company’s breakthrough Assisted Docking system on September 28. Volvo Penta Assisted Docking, the next generation of marine automation, allows the captain to defy the elements by removing the dynamics of wind and current while maneuvering in tight spaces, enabling safe and easy boat docking, even in challenging conditions. The Innovation Award is one of the industry’s most prestigious honors, and winners are competitively selected by a panel of experienced boating journalists.

BWI judge Zuzana Prochaska, said, “The IBEX Innovation Award judges found that Volvo Penta’s much-awaited Assisted Docking addresses the highest hurdle in boating, and that’s being able to land safely. It takes the anxiety out of the process and is so easy you may find yourself docking just for fun. Combining high-precision GPS with DPS slows the decision-making process and lets drivers evaluate their choices at critical moments.”

“Being recognized as one of the most innovative companies again this year and adding another Innovation Award to our long list of industry firsts is a true honor and testament to our company’s dedication to pushing the industry forward in pursuit of a better boating experience,” said Martin Bjuve, president of Volvo Penta of the Americas.

Bjuve also joined fellow industry influencers on a panel addressing the theme of “Leadership through Stewardship” at the STO Leadership Summit. The speakers focused on intentional leadership, building corporate culture and empowerment of people.