Leaders / Yachting

Meme Poon Powers Forward With Volvo Penta

Founder and General Manager of Grandtech, Volvo Penta’s Hong Kong dealer, Meme Poon works closely with representatives and dealers of the world’s leading luxury yacht brands.

Dec 31, 2023 | By John Higginson
Meme Poon, General Manager, Grandtech International Engineering

Which brands and dealers are among Grandtech International Engineering’s regular clients in Hong Kong?

Our regular clients include dealers representing Princess, Jeanneau, Prestige, Galeon, Sunseeker, Azimut, Absolute and Sessa. In the past year, we’ve had the privilege to add Nimbus and Invictus as new brands in our portfolio in Hong Kong.

What presence do Grandtech and Volvo Penta have at the Hong Kong International Boat Show in Marina Cove, following events at Lantau Yacht Club and Hong Kong Gold Coast?

We’re collaborating with several dealers to showcase a selection of yachts equipped with Volvo Penta engines, allowing visitors to witness their performance and quality.

Some flybridge motor yachts featuring Volvo Penta IPS (Inboard Performance System) engines include Absolute’s Navetta 58 and 60 Fly, which feature twin D8-IPS800 and D11-IPS950 engines respectively, while the Azimut Fly 68 has two D13-IPS1350 engines.

Sanlorenzo’s SX88 superyacht has three D13-IPS1050s, while Fairline’s Squadron 50 and Beneteau Gran Turismo 45 have twin D6-IPS650 and D6-IPS600 engines respectively. Princess’s V50 is also equipped with two D6-IPS600s.

Sessa’s F47 has two D6-IPS650s while the Dufour 41 sailing monohull has a single 50hp Volvo Penta D2 saildrive. Fountaine Pajot’s MY6 power catamaran uses two D6-IPS480s and its Tanna 47 sailing catamaran has two 60hp D2 saildrives.

Other models using Volvo Penta engines include the Invictus GT280 with two 350hp V8s and Galeon’s 500 Fly, which has twin 725hp D11 engines. We encourage visitors to explore these stunning yachts and experience firsthand the excellence that Volvo Penta engines bring to the boating industry.

What range of services does Grandtech provide to shipyards, dealers and yacht owners?

In our quest to provide unparalleled support to our clients, we take pride in offering a comprehensive array of services that encompass the entire spectrum of installation, commissioning, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting. We believe in delivering holistic solutions that cater to all our clients’ needs.

When it comes to spare parts, we have clients covered. Our dedicated team handles the seamless supply of high-quality components, ensuring equipment remains in optimal condition. Moreover, our highly skilled service team specialises in pre-delivery commissioning (PDC) for new engines, annual general maintenance and ad hoc repairs, as well as the replacement and overhaul of engine services.

In the unfortunate event of system failures or breakdowns, our clients can rely on our prompt and efficient repair services. Our technicians, armed with extensive expertise and cutting-edge tools, possess the ability to swiftly diagnose and rectify issues across a wide range of equipment and systems. We understand the importance of minimising downtime and swiftly restoring operations to minimise productivity losses.

As the industry continues to evolve, so do we. Over the years, we’ve continuously expanded and refined our offerings to adapt to the changing needs of our clients. Our commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements allows us to deliver innovative solutions that drive efficiency and maximise operational performance.

How has your number of pre-delivery commissions (PDC) for new engines changed post-Covid?

Over the past couple of years, we’ve seen some notable shifts in the number of PDCs for new engines due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2021, we experienced a substantial increase, with the number surpassing our previous average of 20 and reaching over 30.

In 2022, we handled 24 PDCs for new boats. While this represents a slight decrease compared to the previous year, it’s important to note that the global yachting industry has been navigating various challenges during this period, including supply-chain disruptions and market uncertainties.

In the first nine months of this year, we successfully completed 20 PDCs, so based on current trends and market indicators, we anticipate the full-year figure will be like last year.

It’s worth mentioning these figures are subject to the dynamic nature of the industry and various external factors. Nonetheless, we remain committed to providing exceptional service and meeting the needs of our clients.

We have a wide range of popular Volvo Penta products that cater to the diverse needs of the boating community, but the Volvo Penta IPS stands out as the most sought-after product.

IPS is truly revolutionary and has gained significant popularity among both yacht builders and owners due to its exceptional combination of speed, fuel efficiency and manoeuvrability. We offer a range of IPS models, starting from the D6 to the powerful D13 engines.

When considering the range of yachts suitable for IPS, it’s important to note it varies depending on the specific model. The D6 engine, with its six-cylinder design, is perfectly suited for smaller to mid-size boats. If you’re looking for a reliable and comfortable water ride in a mid-size to larger boat, the D8 engine is an ideal choice.

Meme Poon on an F47 by Sessa, one of many international yacht brands using Volvo Penta products

For those seeking higher levels of power and performance in their yachts, the D11 and D13 engines deliver exceptional capabilities. In addition to the IPS system, we also provide a wide range of diesel engines and gasoline engines. These options cater to different preferences and requirements, ensuring we have the perfect propulsion solution for every boating enthusiast in Hong Kong¹.

What are notable evolutions in Volvo Penta and IPS products over the past year?

IPS has continued to evolve, building on its impressive history since its commercial launch in 2005. This innovative system has been refined and improved over nearly two decades of development by continuously increasing its power and performance, fuel efficiency, and enhancing manoeuvrability and control.

Aside from IPS, an important development from Volvo Penta is the integration of electronic systems into its products to enhance functionality and provide better control and monitoring. Features like Joystick Control allows boaters to effortlessly navigate tight spaces and make precise movements with their vessels, while Dynamic Positioning System² (DPS) improves manoeuvrability and ease of operation.

Assisted Docking³ is another advanced feature developed by Volvo Penta. Docking can be a challenging task for every yacht owner, even for the most experienced ones. Factors such as wind, currents and tight spaces can make it daunting, but these challenges can be overcome with Assisted Docking. By utilising a combination of sensors, GPS and advanced control systems, the technology assists in manoeuvring and positioning the yacht accurately during the docking process.

Additionally, there has been a growing focus on connectivity and digital solutions in the marine industry. Volvo Penta has introduced the Easy Connect⁴ system, which enhances boaters’ experiences by providing access to real-time data, information like a boat’s last-known position, engine hours, fuel consumption and performed journeys.

The integrated cloud service function provides you with a portable dashboard, letting owners access it whenever they like.

Can you tell us about Volvo Penta’s new online shop, which launched over the summer?

The online shop⁵ offers a comprehensive selection of Volvo Penta products including engines, parts, accessories and maintenance items. The user-friendly interface allows customers to navigate through the product categories and locate the items they desire.

Each product listing on the online shop provides detailed information, specifications and compatibility details, which enable customers to make informed decisions and choose the right products that meet their specific requirements.

Can you explain more about Volvo Penta’s new Extended Coverage programme?

Volvo Penta understands the importance of comprehensive coverage for a boating investment. In addition to the standard two-year warranty, the Extended Coverage programme offers an additional three years of full coverage for the entire package including the helm station, engines, drives and propellers. This extension ensures owners stay ahead of potential future repair expenses, providing peace of mind.

Extended Coverage offers the same level of comprehensive protection as the initial two years of warranty. It covers the repair and replacement of defective parts, encompassing all Volvo Penta branded products, excluding consumables such as filters, hoses and belts.

As a bonus, customers who purchase the Extended Coverage through Grandtech Hong Kong before December 15, 2023, will receive complimentary Easy Connect hardware and installation.

The Easy Connect system allows owners to monitor their boat’s vital information such as fuel consumption, engine data and GPS location from their smartphone or tablet, providing real-time insights and convenience.

What else should our readers know about Grandtech and Volvo Penta products?

In addition to the wide range of products, it’s important that owners understand the significance of general maintenance for ensuring optimal engine performance and lifespan. Regular maintenance, conducted by our qualified and well-trained technicians, is crucial in keeping the engines in top condition. This includes timely diagnosis and software upgrades using VODIA, a specialised diagnostic tool.

By prioritising maintenance and staying up-to-date with software upgrades, boaters can maximise the performance and longevity of their Volvo Penta engines, ensuring a reliable and enjoyable boating experience.

http://www.grtech.com.hk
http://www.volvopenta.com

1 For more information, read:
https://grtech.com.hk/the-most-popular-volvo-penta-models-in-hong-kong/

2 For more information on Dynamic Positioning System, visit:
https://grtech.com.hk/10-tipsfor-mastering-the-art-of-boat-docking/

3 For more information on Assisted Docking, visit:
https://grtech.com.hk/upgrade-your-yachtwith-assisted-docking-key-considerations-volvo-penta/

4 For more information on Easy Connect System:
https://grtech.com.hk/stay-connected-withyour-boat-a-guide-to-the-volvo-penta-easy-connect-app/

5 For more information about Volvo Penta’s online shop, read:
https://grtech.com.hk/celebratingthe-grand-opening-of-volvo-pentas-online-store-your-one-stop-shop-for-marine-excellence/

This article was first published on yachtstyle.co

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