Volvo Penta’s virtual anchor system expanded to V6, V8 engines

Dynamic Positioning System, introduced to Volvo Penta’s larger inboard engines in 2009, was previously only available on larger boats.

However, the expansion of the system to include the smaller engines now means that DPS can be added to any boat from 6.0 metres in length up.

DPS is linked to Volvo Penta’s joystick control system that allows owners to precisely and intuitively control a boat using small inputs to a joystick.

However, the controller also includes a button that, once the skipper presses it, will automatically hold the boat steady, including its heading.

It’s pretty much like a safety switch, allowing skippers in high-pressure situations to stop, step away from the helm and rethink how they are berthing a boat or maneuvering in tight spaces. 

Volvo Penta’s DPS feature is enabled for twin, triple, or quadruple solutions across its marine leisure range worldwide. 

The boat having DPS fitted must have electric steering, and the Volvo Glass Cockpit system will need a software update. It may also need to install a GPS antenna that feeds data back to the system, telling it where the boat is in space.

Volvo Penta said the new V6 and V8 DPS systems would roll out gradually worldwide. Boatsales has asked Volvo Penta’s Australian office for the likely timing of the system’s arrival here.