Mercury adds 'virtual' trim controls for outboard engines

Active Trim is an electronically controlled trimming system that helps boat owners improve performance and cut down on fuel costs. It was originally controlled via dash-mounted buttons, but now offers owners the choice of a fully digital controller built into the Vessel View touchscreen.

“One of our key goals is to make boating easier and more enjoyable, and that’s what this does,” Mercury Marine accessories director Paul McLean said. “It’s simple, straight-forward and it means one less item to clutter up your dash.

“You simply go to ‘engine functions’ on the VesselView screen and that’s where you’ll find Active Trim.”

It also means the virtual Active Trim system can be used on everything from a 40hp runabout to a 400hp high-performance boat, with drivers able to switch the system off when not needed by manually setting the trim.

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Mercury said while boat owners would no longer need physical up/down switches, they would still need to buy the Active Trim computer module to use the touchscreen system. Owners who prefer the analogue buttons over the digital ones will still be able to buy them.

The Active Trim system uses GPS data and engine data including revs to automatically set the ideal trim level for the outboard engine via five presets. It also helps the boat pop up out of the hole and onto a plane with more control.

“Owners can simply run their boat and select the best profile for any application,” Mercury said. “They can then personalise Active Trim to their driving style and/or compensate for changes in boat load, operator preference and weather conditions.”

More at Mercury Marine.