Volvo Penta launches plug-and-play wakeboat system
An out-of-the-box automated ballast control system offers boat builders a one-stop solution for wake boatsVolvo Penta has dipped a toe into the potentially lucrative wakeboating scene, announcing a fully integrated, automated control system that will create the perfect wave at the touch of a button.
The Volvo Penta Water Sport Control display integrates fully with the vessel’s Forward Drive (forward-facing propeller), Electronic Vessel Control (fly-by-wire throttle and drive selector) and Glass Cockpit (multifunction display) systems
“Wakesurfing is one of the fastest growing trends in today’s boating market, and we’re seeing even more boatbuilders bringing to market a new class of boats optimised for water sports enabled by Volvo Penta’s Forward Drive technology,” Volvo Penta of the Americas chief executive Ron Huibers said.
“The Water Sport Control is the latest in our long line of innovations that reflect our Easy Boating vision, applying new automation technologies to make it easier for more people to have fun on the water.”
One-finger control
Users control the wake profile via the console-mounted touchscreen, with the system able to maintain a constant speed and automatically trim to create and sustain a wake. It can store optimal settings for up to three users.
“Settings can be adjusted at any time during the ride using the touch-screen or the manual control levers on the side,” Volvo Penta said. “The live video display on the screen allows boat drivers to watch the activity astern while keeping their eyes forward.”
The marine engine maker said the first boatbuilder to introduce the Volvo Penta Water Sport Control was Florida-based Regal Boats, which has rolled out the system on the 25RX Surf and LS4 Surf models, which both run sterndrive Volvo Penta V8s.
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