Volvo Penta to showcase inboard joystick driving and docking control for inboards at MIBS

Volvo Penta of the Americas will feature the new Joystick Inboard system at the 2017 Miami International Boat Show.

The Volvo Penta Joystick for Inboard is a joystick for twin inboard shaft installations that includes both docking and driving modes and integrates all five steering components: thruster, rudders, gear shift, slip and throttle. The joystick’s technology automatically calculates balance between rudder angles and thrust from the main engines and bow thruster to match each specific boat’s characteristics. The electrical rudder actuator provides steer-by-wire without hydraulics.

In the docking mode, the new Volvo Penta Joystick for Inboard was designed to provide quiet, smooth and precise maneuvering with a combination of engines, bow thruster and rudders. No stern thruster is required in most applications. In the driving mode, the joystick provides fully integrated autopilot steering and easy boat handling in all sea conditions.

The Joystick for Inboard system is compatible with all electronically controlled Volvo Penta diesel engines from 110 hp to 900 hp in twin applications, and integrates seamlessly with the Volvo Penta Glass Cockpit.

Introduction of this technology enables Volvo Penta to offer a complete helm-to-prop solution for inboard applications, leveraging the company’s joystick experience from IPS along with Volvo Penta’s Electronic Vessel Control platform that is based on the same CAN-bus technology used in ships and planes. It is all supported by a single supplier and the need for hydraulic pumps, hoses and control units is eliminated, which the company says makes for an easier and less costly installation.

“The Joystick for Inboard propulsion is the latest innovation to emerge from our Easy Boating vision,” said Ron Huibers, president of Volvo Penta of the Americas. “This vision is to bring to market new technologies that make it easier and more enjoyable for today’s families to enjoy the boating experience. Like Volvo Penta’s revolutionary IPS, this helm-to-prop system scales our proven technology that makes driving and docking a shaft boat effortless and intuitive.”

“Volvo has been and continues to be the leader in joystick technology,” said Thomas Slikkers, CEO and president of S2 Yachts. “Now the latest advancements coupled with inboard propulsion can provide our customers with an expanded feature list, all aimed at enhancing the operational experience. Most impressive with Volvo Penta’s joystick is the fact that it is more than just a docking tool.”

The Joystick for Inboard was a contributing factor in the Düsseldorf Boat Show judges’ decision to grant Volvo Penta an innovation award for the company’s dedication to bringing new advancements to the marine industry.

Learn more about the system at the Miami International Boat Show in booth F272 or  on a Tiara 4300, located at Volvo Penta slips 125-132.

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