Volvo Penta has launched a new feature system called Joystick Surfing that allows wake boat drivers to control their boat using only a joystick.
The new system builds upon Volvo Penta's existing joystick technology while combining with their Twin Forward Drive propulsion system and their Surf Mode Watersports Control display.
The system enables full control of the boat without using the steering wheel or throttle, allowing for precise single-hand maneuvering.
“Joystick Surfing combines a range of innovations to ensure a comfortable and relaxing boating experience for the entire journey – whether you are crushing the waves on your board or launching through them while savoring the view,” said Jens Bering, vice president of marine sales for Volvo Penta North America in a press release.
“By removing complexities and expanding user capabilities, this new solution is designed to make maneuvering a wake boat more effortless and enjoyable than ever.”
By integrating Joystick Surfing with the Watersport Control display, boaters can select their preferred surf profile in Surf Mode and activate the joystick to begin cruising. The functionality enhances the operator experience and maneuverability at lower speeds. The Joystick Surfing feature also offers driving versatility with steering, throttle, and gear control at higher speeds while cruising.
“Joystick Surfing is perfect for modern, tech-savvy boaters who thrive while operating intuitive and easy-to-use systems,” added Bering. “Catered to help meet evolving, user-centric industry demands, this cutting-edge technology sets a new standard for the design of innovative and versatile helm stations that are transforming the watersports market.”
With Joystick Surfing, the joystick can be installed on the armrest of the driver’s seat. This keeps the operator involved in the watersport action and aware of the surfer while making easy course corrections with one hand, providing an ideal solution for wake boats.
Smart safety features also help to ensure a smooth journey for boaters. If the joystick is released in reverse, it will automatically default to a neutral position for safety. Joystick Surfing makes course corrections with the autopilot by turning a couple of degrees with a twist of the wrist.
The new platform can be paired with the Volvo Penta Twin Forward Drive system, an extension of its forward-facing, counter-rotating prop design with gasoline engines. The combination enables all the benefits of the Forward Drive – superior maneuverability and efficiency, quick acceleration and time to plane, powerful thrust and performance, and noticeable onboard comfort – to be applied to larger boats. This equates to bigger wakes, additional passengers and more fun for watersports lovers, making it a significant leap for forward drive boats.
Joystick Surfing expands Volvo Penta’s innovation in joystick technology, which has been an integral part of the company’s trademark helm-to-propeller approach since 2012. The introduction of Joystick Surfing with Twin Forward Drive and additional enhancements to the Volvo Penta portfolio drive home the company’s commitment to make boating more intuitive, accessible and customizable. #news #products #volvopenta
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