Abstract: An internal combustion engine is provided having a first and second bank of cylinder bores arranged in a generally V-shaped configuration. The internal combustion engine includes a first and second intake manifold each having a plenum and at least one intake runner. The first and second intake manifolds are mounted to the internal combustion engine in an outboard position. An inlet air duct communicates inlet air to each of the first and second intake manifolds. A first and second inlet air heater is disposed substantially adjacent to the respective plenums of the first and second intake manifold. The first and second inlet air heaters operate to selectively heat the inlet air prior to entering the respective plenums of the first and second intake manifold. The first and second inlet air heaters may include at least one of driver circuitry and diagnostic circuitry.