Volvo Penta’s New Forward Drive

In a complete shift from rear propulsion, Volvo Penta and Paradigm Boats have re-imagined a way to create the perfect waves, smooth cruising, and improved safety by relocating the sterndrive’s props to the front of the drive rather than the rear. With two forward-facing, counter-rotating props, the new Duoprop pulls you through the water instead of pushing you, eliminating propeller exposure at the rear and providing maximum boating control. Supplying faster acceleration and unequaled thrust, the Damascus 296 Surf is ideal not only for wakeboarding and water sports, but also for tranquil cruising.

For the perfect wake and wave specific to each individual rider, the Watersports Control system allows you to customize separate settings and speed preferences for 21 specific profiles, as well as personalize the boat’s speed and trim to create the optimal wake.  With an adjustable angle of thrust, you can draw the stern lower into the water and fine-tune your surfing wake on the fly. Switch to Tow Mode to automatically accelerate your pre-set engine speed and adjust for your tow load. The intuitive engine system will quickly compensate when your skier turns sharply, and keep your engine at the set rpm.

Ideal not just for speedy water sports, serene leisure cruises are also now possible as the Forward Drive’s orientation means less noise and exhaust and the roomy deck space ensures plenty of area to stretch out. Adding the optional Powertrim Assistant will keep you on plane with a perfectly trimmed drive for a smooth ride. With a system that automatically adjusts your boat’s motor trim to the optimal running attitude, you will appreciate an even better acceleration increase in speed and comfort.

Thrilled to show customers this new paradigm shift, Paradigm Boats CEO Scott Buchanan said, “We’re excited to start getting boaters into this new vessel and see how it changes their perspective on what’s possible on water. By combining the best in both water sport and leisure applications, our partnership with Volvo Penta upholds our high standards for craftsmanship and quality, delivering an unparalleled level of smoothness and maneuverability.”

To protect against corrosion, the Damascus 296 Surf has multiple anti-corrosion technologies, including all-aluminum blocks and closed-loop freshwater cooling. Both audio and visual sensors warn of potential saltwater intrusions in the bellow or drive gear lubricant. And with one of the cleanest propulsion engines on the market, you’ll enjoy a significant reduction in emissions compared to standard outboards. CO emissions are reduced by 95 percent at idle, which generally comprises half of the time most boaters spend on the water.