Volvo Penta Buys Seven Marine

Swedish stern drive engine manufacturer Volvo Penta has become the majority shareowner of Milwaukee, Wisconsin-based outboard motor manufacturer Seven Marine.

“This is an exciting step for Volvo Penta,” says Ron Huibers, president of Volvo Penta of the Americas. “We are combining the strength of two highly innovative companies to deliver an unbeatable engine range for the gasoline segment. We will not only come to market with an extremely attractive outboard solution, but we will deliver the benefits of our world-class service network to a broader range of customers.”

Founded in 2010, Seven Marine produces the most powerful outboard engines in the world, with 557 and 627 horsepower models based on horizontally-mounted small block Cadillac V8s. The outboards borrow automotive technology including superchargers and closed-loop cooling systems. It’s an interesting fit, since Volvo Penta also uses GM engine blocks for its marine stern drive engines.

According to a Volvo press release, the deal will “broaden Volvo Penta’s technology platform, offering a modular, cutting-edge solution, regardless of the energy source, to deliver the desired power in the water.” Volvo adds that “Seven Marine will be able to further develop its existing innovative outboard technology to satisfy a wider range of needs for its premium and exclusive customer base. This acquisition will strengthen their combined footprint in the marine market.”

Moving forward, Volvo Penta will collaborate to continue to develop Seven Marine’s outboard offerings. “The Seven Marine concept mirrors the successful strategy we have followed in pursuing automotive technology,” said Björn Ingemanson, Volvo Penta president. “We have a shared vision for the future, and this deal provides an ideal platform for us to grow and adapt together. We will move forward in leading the development of world-class performance and sustainability for the most premium of outboard motor segments.”

Seven Marine will operate as a stand-alone entity retaining its brand, product line and organizational structure. Ron Huibers, Volvo Penta’s president of the Americas region, will be the chairman of Seven Marine and Rick Davis will remain as Seven Marine’s president and CEO.