Overview#
The Blue Star VD200-04FT4 is a 200-kilowatt EPA Tier 4 Final / EU Stage 5 diesel standby/prime generator built around the Volvo Penta TAD1180VE — a 10.8-liter inline-six that is unique to the Tier 4 Final lineup. This is a current-production active model.
The TAD1180VE sits between the 7.7L TAD881VE (VD150-04FT4) and the larger Volvo Penta T4F engines, filling a displacement gap that doesn't exist in the Tier 3 product line. This reflects the reality that Tier 4 Final aftertreatment reduces net available power, requiring more displacement per kilowatt than Tier 3 equivalents.
The Volvo Penta TAD1180VE platform#
The TAD1180VE is a Tier 4 Final-specific engine:
- 10.8L inline-six — bore of 4.84 in and stroke of 5.98 in, a unique combination not shared with Tier 3 engines
- 16.9:1 compression ratio — optimized for Tier 4 Final combustion requirements
- SCR/DPF/DOC triple aftertreatment with 18.5-gallon DEF tank
- 5.3% DEF consumption — moderate relative to the smaller T4F models
- EPA Tier 4 Final + EU Stage 5 dual certification
- 4,921 ft altitude ceiling
- Larger footprint than the VD100-150 models: 120 x 66 x 89 in versus 110 x 60 x 78 in
Variant selection guide#
- VD150-04FT4 (150 kW, Volvo TAD881VE 7.7L I-6, Tier 4 Final) — smaller engine, smaller footprint. Choose if 150 kW meets the load study.
- VD250-04FT4 (250 kW, Volvo Penta, Tier 4 Final) — next step up for loads above 200 kW.
- VD230-01 (230 kW, Volvo TAD851GE 7.7L I-6, Tier 3) — the closest Tier 3 kW equivalent, for jurisdictions where Tier 3 is still permitted.
When to spec the VD200-04FT4#
- 160-200 kW emergency standby or continuous prime loads on diesel fuel
- Jurisdictions requiring Tier 4 Final or EU Stage 5 emissions compliance (California CARB for non-emergency prime)
- Mid-to-large commercial facilities: hotels, schools, office complexes, municipal buildings
- Sites at any elevation up to 4,921 ft
