A Perfectly Balanced Match: Caterpillar Launches Cat® C9 ACERT Engines with Zeus® Pod Drives

To meet the increasing customer demand for a steerable pod drive, the Cat C9 ACERT marine engine is now compatible with the innovative Zeus® Pod Drive. After beginning discussions with ZF in late 2007, the two companies have been working closely on research, development, and testing of the new package which provides customers the option to take advantage of the pod technology paired with Caterpillar's power, torque, reliability, and product support advantages in a power range that was not previously available to the market.

Since 1 July 2009, Cat dealers have been distributing a complete package comprising of an in-line, 6-cylinder, 4-stroke Cat C9 ACERT marine engine, a connection kit, and the Zeus® Pod Drive System from ZF. Certified with an EPA (US Environmental Protection Agency) Tier 2-compliant E-rating, the engine fills a customer need for high power output from a smaller package at 575 mhp (423 kW) at 2,500 rpm, providing superb acceleration over the entire operating range.

Because the Cat C9 ACERT engine is perfectly balanced with the pod drive, customers will notice smoother and more accurate maneuverability from the independent joystick control. Another advantage is that the aft-facing pod drive results in greater efficiency, without sacrificing safety because the propellers are protected by the pod’s gear case and a skeg should the drive encounter underwater debris.

The Caterpillar C9 ACERT – Zeus® Pod Drive System combination was tested with different yachts under a variety of conditions, including a 44-feet Sea Ray yacht that completed a demo tour along the eastern seaboard of the United States. Regular deliveries of the package began in summer 2009, following great interest expressed by well-known yacht builders world-wide. Azimut introduced the Atlantis 50X4 with a Cat C9 ACERT engine outfitted with the Zeus® Pod Drive System at the Cannes International Boat Show in September. Customers have already commented on the simplicity of the installation of the pod drive system and the enhanced handling of the boat – regardless of piloting experience.

“Engineering the Cat C9 ACERT engine together with the Zeus Pod Drive System reflects the desire of our customers for additional power, control and safety,” said David Shannon, Manager Global Pleasure Craft, Caterpillar Marine Power Systems. “With Cat C-series marine engines already regarded as a gold standard for performance in pleasure craft, they will now also become recognized for unparalleled enjoyment in pleasure craft!”