Volvo Penta has announced the launch of its next-generation marine Autopilot system. Fully integrated with their Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) system and offering unique integration possibilities with other smart solutions, the new boat autopilot system delivers intuitive performance and an enhanced boating experience. The next-generation Autopilot is available for all Volvo Penta propulsion packages with electric steering across the Volvo Penta IPS, Aquamatic and inboard ranges.
In its’ next-generation format, Autopilot functionality builds on Volvo Penta’s existing technology, offering superior performance and ease of use. Specific features include:
- Seamless drive functionality: Helps the captain hold a steady course and heading even through turns, enabling confident, effortless handling.
- Haptic steering: A built-in brake function in the steering wheel and joystick provides haptic feedback on steering and course.
- Highly precise heading control: Unlike typical magnetic compasses, the new system has a GPS compass which provides superior heading precision, unaffected by magnetic interference.
- Optimised navigation: A more precise heading source has a positive effect on other navigational equipment, including improved and more reliable radar overlay as well as more accurate orientation of the navigational chart.
A world’s first – Integrated Autopilot, Joystick Driving and Assisted Docking
As Anders Thorin, Marine Electronics and Software Innovation Lead at Volvo Penta, points out, Autopilot systems for marine leisure users are many. However, there is an aspect of the next-generation version of Volvo Penta’s Autopilot that is unique to the company – the fact that it integrates with other enabling tech.
“In a first for our industry, the new Volvo Penta system allows for Autopilot to operate seamlessly with Joystick Driving and Assisted Docking. As well as delivering a fully integrated driving and docking experience, this offers a level of convenience, confidence and control that is second to none,” Anders Thorin explains.
Created with compatibility in mind
The next-generation system is compatible with Volvo Penta propulsion packages from 2019 onwards (EVC 2 systems). The system is also compatible with all-electric steering across Volvo Penta IPS, Aquamatic Sterndrive and twin inboard systems. In terms of future-proofing performance, this will be achieved by offering software upgrades.
“For boat dealers and boat builders, the next-generation Autopilot represents an opportunity to offer customers even higher levels of performance and precision – and for leisure boaters, we’re positive that the intuitive, stress-minimizing opportunities offered by the solution will help them enjoy more pleasurable sailing, no matter where their adventure takes them,” Anders Thorin concludes.
Autopilot Highlights
Next-generation Autopilot – An enhanced Autopilot system, offering smoother, more intuitive performance and full integration with the Volvo Penta EVC system.
Seamless drive functionality – The system ensures effortless handling by helping boaters maintain a steady course and heading, even through turns.
Haptic steering – A unique built-in brake function in the steering wheel and joystick provides haptic feedback for better steering control and course accuracy.
Superior precision with GPS compass – Unlike traditional magnetic compasses, the new Autopilot features a GPS compass, offering unmatched heading precision without interference from magnetic fields.
World’s first integrated system – A groundbreaking integration of Volvo Penta’s Autopilot, Joystick Driving and Assisted Docking, delivers an all-in-one driving and docking experience that boosts convenience, confidence and control.
Future-proof and compatible – The system is compatible with all Volvo Penta propulsion packages with EVC from 2019 onwards, with future software upgrades ensuring continued performance.
Volvo Penta, with approximately 3,500 dealers in over 130 countries, is a world-leading and global manufacturer of engines and complete power systems for boats, vessels and industrial applications. The engine program comprises diesel and gasoline engines with power outputs of between 10 and 1000 hp. Volvo Penta is part of the Volvo Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of heavy trucks, buses and construction equipment.
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