Volvo Penta brings advanced joystick features to wider boating market
by Volvo Penta 1 Oct 2025 09:25 PDT
Volvo Penta joystick © Volvo Penta
Volvo Penta is expanding its award-winning Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) features with the launch of enhanced joystick technology for V8 single gasoline engines. Now, a broader range of watersports and recreational vessels can offer the seamless simplicity of Joystick Driving, Joystick Docking and Joystick Surfing.
Through the introduction of an upgraded electric steering system for gasoline single-engine installations, Volvo Penta’s advanced joystick options can now enable more precise control — from navigating tight marinas to carving the perfect waves — for even more boaters across a range of on-water activities.
The innovation builds on Volvo Penta's legacy of joystick technology, which has been central to its helm-to-propeller approach for nearly two decades, with new solutions that increase functionality, comfort and confidence at the helm. Additional options for the gasoline engine range include Joystick Driving, Joystick Docking, and Joystick Surfing, offering full joystick functionality for surfing and docking at low speeds as well as high-speed driving.
"These joystick features were developed in response to strong demand from OEM partners who saw its potential to elevate the experience for a broader base of boaters," said Jens Bering, head of Marine Product and Solutions Management at Volvo Penta North America. "Excitement from the market continues to fuel innovation and solidify Volvo Penta's leadership in the recreation and watersports boat segments."
The evolution of easy boating
Volvo Penta aims to deliver a truly intuitive boating experience with its advanced joystick functionality, where it is possible for the operator to never have to engage with the steering wheel or control lever while docking, driving or surfing.
Joystick Driving integrates shift, steering and throttle into one joystick control, allowing operators to maneuver, adjust heading and increase or decrease speed with a single hand simply pushing or pulling the joystick. Joystick Docking offers peace of mind around the dock via low-speed maneuvering with confidence and ease using one joystick control.
"Volvo Penta's joystick technology is built for modern boaters who value simplicity and comfort on the water," said Bering. "Whether you're docking in a tight slip, accelerating across open water or setting up for the perfect wave, our joystick features are engineered to provide flexibility and peace of mind at every turn."
When using the Joystick Surfing function together with the integrated Volvo Penta Watersport Control, operators can simply select a favorite profile on the Glass Cockpit Display while in Surf Mode and press the joystick forward to begin cruising, for smoother, more controlled sessions while towing a surfer at lower speeds. This user-friendly functionality keeps the operator involved in the action and aware of the surfer while making easy course corrections with one hand as the wakesurfer enjoys a perfect wave.
Comfort that lasts the journey
Volvo Penta's joystick can be conveniently mounted in an ergonomic position that enhances comfort during long days on the water. Smart safety features also help to ensure a smooth journey for boaters.
For added functionality, an Autopilot system can be fully integrated into the EVC system, offering benefits like optimized navigation, precise heading, haptic steering and course control.
The latest EVC evolution marks a major step forward in Volvo Penta's journey toward ease of use and more user-friendly boating. With Joystick Driving, Joystick Docking and Joystick Surfing for Twin Forward Drive already in the market, this advancement for single gasoline engines reinforces the company's commitment to making boating more accessible and enjoyable for all.