Volvo Penta acquires majority stake in marine battery systems pioneer ZEM AS

Both companies have an array of knowledge, experience, and expertise. Volvo Penta will support ZEM's growth through its established network, while ZEM's experience will help Volvo Penta accelerate development projects. Together the companies will expand and accelerate Volvo Penta's range and capabilities in marine electromobility.

"Joining forces with Volvo Penta marks the start of an exciting new phase for ZEM," says Jan-Olaf Willums, founder of ZEM. "Our two companies are aligned on such core values as safety and environmental protection and we both have that Scandinavian pioneering spirit! Volvo Penta's name and market reach will help propel us into new electromobility markets supporting our growth."

Volvo Penta's electromobility transformation

In order to advance the Volvo Group's sustainability agenda, Volvo Penta recently announced that it was redirecting further resources into accelerating its product development. The ambition is to reach net-zero emissions through fossil-free, renewable fuels, electric, and hybrid technology while continuing to provide efficient solutions to the marine industry.

"Volvo Penta's vision is to become a leader in sustainable power solutions, where we are driving transformation on land and at sea towards a more sustainable society," explains Heléne Mellquist, President of Volvo Penta. "With this acquisition, we are now able to offer driveline solutions for marine customers through ZEM and also contribute to the broader marine electromobility footprint through battery supply. It is a step forward in our transformation and will also allow Volvo Penta to capture new opportunities."

Steady considered collaboration

ZEM will remain operating under its current brand, and under the leadership of Egil Mollestad, the long-term CEO of ZEM and a recognized pioneer in the maritime sector. The collaboration between Volvo Penta and ZEM is expected to grow gradually.

"I look forward to working with Volvo Penta. This will allow us to grow, with regards to both technology and channels for sales and aftermarket support," says Egil Mollestad.

Although, ZEM will continue to grow its battery and complete driveline business, over time the two companies will create complete packages together.

"The switch from diesel-based technology to electrification will be a key element in our transformation, alongside other new technological advancements," says Heléne Mellquist. "The electrification journey will be reinforced through strong collaboration with stakeholders – customers, business partners, and like-minded industry experts."

This transaction has no significant impact on the Volvo Group's earnings or financial position.

June 2, 2021

Journalists wanting further information, please contact

Jennifer Humphrey, Communicator AB Volvo Penta, +46 (0) 31 323 30 55                    

Claes Eliasson, Volvo Group Media Relations, +46 76 553 72 29

For more information, please visit volvogroup.comFor frequent updates, follow us on Twitter: @volvogroup 

The Volvo Group drives prosperity through transport and infrastructure solutions, offering trucks, buses, construction equipment, power solutions for marine and industrial applications, financing and services that increase our customers' uptime and productivity. Founded in 1927, the Volvo Group is committed to shaping the future landscape of sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions. The Volvo Group is headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, employs almost 100.000 people and serves customers in more than 190 markets. In 2020, net sales amounted to about SEK 338 billion (EUR 33.6 billion). Volvo shares are listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.

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