Overview#
The Blue Star VD125-04FT4 is a 125-kilowatt EPA Tier 4 Final / EU Stage 5 diesel standby/prime generator built around the Volvo Penta TAD582VE — the higher-output variant of the 5.13L inline-four used in the VD100-04FT4. This is a current-production active model that replaces the legacy VD125-02FT4.
The VD125-04FT4 shares its physical footprint and weight with the VD100-04FT4, making it a drop-in upgrade when 100 kW is marginal for the load study.
The Volvo Penta TAD582VE platform#
The TAD582VE is the higher-output variant of the 5.13L Tier 4 Final engine family:
- Same 5.13L inline-four as the TAD581VE (VD100-04FT4) — identical bore (4.33 in), stroke (5.31 in), and 17.2:1 compression ratio
- Higher output tuning — 218 HP (160 kWm) versus 175 HP (131 kWm) for the TAD581VE
- SCR/DPF/DOC triple aftertreatment with 18.5-gallon DEF tank
- 5.9% DEF consumption — slightly higher than the VD100's 5.1% due to the higher output
- 4,921 ft altitude ceiling — same as the VD100-04FT4
Variant selection guide#
The VD125-04FT4 is the top of the 5.13L Tier 4 Final range:
- VD100-04FT4 (100 kW, Volvo TAD581VE 5.13L I-4, Tier 4 Final) — same footprint, lower fuel and DEF consumption. Choose this if 100 kW meets the load study.
- VD150-04FT4 (150 kW, Volvo Penta, Tier 4 Final) — next step up, likely a larger engine platform, for loads above 125 kW.
- VD125-02FT4 (125 kW, legacy) — the predecessor model, no longer in active production. The VD125-04FT4 is the current replacement.
When to spec the VD125-04FT4#
- 100-125 kW emergency standby or continuous prime loads on diesel fuel
- Jurisdictions requiring Tier 4 Final or EU Stage 5 emissions compliance
- Mid-size commercial facilities: retail centers, offices, schools, small medical facilities, school campuses
- Sites at any elevation up to 4,921 ft
