Volvo Penta News & Specials

New Gas Engine IPS Joystick Control

February 15 2009

Even the most experienced boat owner can sometimes feel uncomfortable docking their boat in a congested harbor. Volvo Penta first solved the problem for diesel powered boats in 2006 with its revolutionary Volvo Penta IPS joystick. Now, this technology is ready for gasoline sterndrive owners who want the same one-hand docking capabilities with their systems.

The new sterndrive joystick builds on existing Volvo Penta IPS technology. "Fly by wire" software commands from the helm mounted joystick control the individual sterndrives with just the right throttle and thrust to move the boat into your chosen spot.

The joystick is fully intuitive. Push the joystick to port or starboard and your boat moves confidently sideways. Forward and aft movements of the joystick propel the boat in the same direction. By effectively combining direction and thrust, the joystick helps overcome the effects of wind and current. You can even use the joystick for slow-speed driving. Low and high RPM maneuverability is acheived with the push of a button.