Ilmor Unveils ‘One Drive’ Propulsion Package

A pair of Ilmor Marine’s creations dubbed the One Drive propulsion system are powering a Formula 350 CBR FX model this week in Miami (click image to enlarge).

With two units showcased in a Formula Boats 350 CBR FX model, Ilmor Marine officially unveiled its new One Drive propulsion package at the Miami International Boat Show this morning. While the engine-and-drive combo in the 35-footer pairs the company’s hydraulically shifted, twin-propeller One Drives with a pair of the company’s 430-hp 6.2L OPS engines, it’s also going to be matched with Ilmor’s 382-hp 6.0L offering for single- and twin-engine applications.

Inside The Drive
According to a press release from Ilmor, the “central differentiator” of the One Drive propulsion system is its electro-magnetically actuated hydraulic clutch transmission. The hydraulic clutch system, which reportedly makes for ultra-smooth shifting, quietly engages and disengages gears at two-shifts-per-second. The twin propeller drive unit is built with precision forged gears for increased durability and is hard-anodized for superior corrosion protection. All drive systems are complete with power-assisted steering and hydraulic trim. The One Drive transom has a significantly larger exhaust output than comparable systems, minimizing backpressure for improved engine performance.

The Ilmor One Drive utilizes stern-drive components provided by engineering partner Yanmar Marine, already in operation with its diesel. The One Drive system is Environmental Protection Agency- and California Air Resources Board-certified in the United States, as well European Union RCD emissions and sound compliant.

“When we crafted the Ilmor One Drive package, we wanted to give recreational boaters a driving experience never before offered in gasoline-powered boats,” said Paul Ray, the president of Ilmor, in the press release. “We wanted to improve the technology, rising above traditional noisy cone clutch systems for a smooth and quiet shift, and a ride quality much more akin to luxury road cars.”

Hydraulic shifting is the key feature of the One Drive system (click image to enlarge).

“Our team at Formula is thrilled to partner with Ilmor in the launch of the One Drive and to expand Ilmor product offerings into our hugely popular Sun Sport and CBR models,” said Scott Porter, the president of Formula Boats, in the release. “Ilmor has been very professional and a pleasure to deal with, which is what you would expect from a Penske-owned company. Our decision to carry the new One Drive systems was greatly influenced after Ilmor delivered more than 10,000 reliable engines in watersports boats.”

For twin-engine powerboat applications, Ilmor offers its optional One Touch joystick system for easy vessel maneuverability at low speeds, especially for docking. The One Touch system includes Ilmor’s informative MERLIN engine monitoring display, and can be equipped with autopilot compatibility. Among other options, the Ilmor One Drive can be color-customized.

“The twin One Drive propulsion systems are performing fantastically well and exceeding expectations in the Formula 350 CBR,” Porter added. “With super smooth hydraulic shifting, the One Touch joystick docking system is the icing on the cake.”

Drive Behind The Drive
According to the release, Ilmor’s expansion into the recreational stern-drive market is reflective of the company’s founding principles—to constantly create new and better powertrain solutions for its customers, whether on the racetrack or on the water. Ilmor’s marine roots are in the high-performance segment and the company is continuing that legacy with its 570-hp MV8 engine, but the engine builder also has been extremely successful in providing powerplants for MasterCraft boats. In short, the company is continuing to expand its product portfolio.

“At Ilmor, we love engines,” said Jessica Gamarra, Ilmor’s sales and marketing director, in the release. “We build superb machines, win races and bring home championships. We thrive on delivering to our customers an experience they will value and remember, whether that’s an Indy 500 race or a day of trouble-free boating with the family. Our new One Drive is Ilmor’s next step to improve and elevate the boating experience for our customers, and to give them the confidence that they’ve made the best possible choice for themselves and their families when they power with Ilmor.”

The Ilmor One Drive system is covered by a five-year factory-backed limited warranty, and is available for order through select boat manufacturing partners. The Formula 350 CBR FX showcasing the engines is at the Ilmor slip and is available for demo rides. Show visitors who’d like more information can visit the Ilmor Exhibit (E133).

Ilmor Unveils ‘One Drive’ Propulsion Package

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