June 19, 2023

Volvo Penta is announcing a new level of joystick driving with the integration of shift, throttle, and steering into a single joystick control. Since 2012, joystick steering has been an integral part of the company’s helm-to-propeller experience. Now, maneuverability, course adjustment, throttle and shift can be controlled through one joystick — and therefore, a single hand.

Simply push the joystick forward to engage the gear, speed up or slow down, and release it to remain at a certain speed. The acceleration will be proportional to the angle of the joystick. When the joystick is pulled back, the throttle reduces, and the boat will stop. To further enhance the driving experience, electronic gear shifting enables smooth acceleration and deceleration.

When you activate the joystick driving function, key driver information – the requested gear, speed, and heading – is automatically displayed in the Volvo Penta Glass Cockpit helm display. You can tailor the joystick driving view to show the information you need – for full control of the situation.

Anders Thorin, marine electronics product planner at Volvo Penta explains that the joystick system the function is seamless and intuitive. “Integrated shift, throttle and steering into the same control delivers a completely new driving experience – where the joystick can be used for your complete journey – without needing to touch the steering wheel or control lever. It feels like this is the way you were always meant to drive.”

Joystick Driving will be available as a direct upgrade to those who already have Joystick Steering onboard and the latest generation of Electronic Vessel Control (EVC 2). It can also be installed as a new feature and vessels will require electric steering, Volvo Penta autopilot, and a Volvo Penta Glass Cockpit display of any size.