Honda Marine, Vetus and Ultraflex engineer scheme to transform the boating experience
Honda Marine has announced it’s collaborating with Vetus and Ultraflex. The plan is to connect engine, steering and a bow thruster with a simple control through a joystick. Honda says this will ‘transform the boating experience’ by enhancing safety, ease of operation, and overall performance. The joystick control system will be available for the 2025 season.
The collaboration with Vetus and Ultraflex, which was announced at the Genoa International Boat Show, will help to utilise each of the companies unique expertise, says Honda, the former with onboard boat systems, the latter with steering and control systems. It is seen as a big step forward for Honda in the marine industry.
The functions of the joystick driving system are now available, both on boats equipped with single Honda outboard engine and with multiple engines. It’s billed as delivering ultimate precision, delivering confidence and comfort when mooring and docking. The advanced system communicates directly with the boat’s engine, steering, and bow thruster- ensuring simplification of the handling process.
“By focusing on seamless operation, Honda Marine is managing people’s expectations for the best experience on water. This collaboration caters to all types of boaters- whether for domestic pleasure or for professional purposes, this new technology will allow for you to manoeuvre and dock your boat safely and comfortably,” says Honda Marine in its press statement from Genoa.
“At Vetus, we take immense pride in collaborating with world-class brands like Honda Marine and Ultraflex. The seamless integration of our unique BOW PRO thruster system with their cutting-edge controls and top-quality outboards has resulted in a truly exceptional solution that enhances ease of boat handling,” says Vetus R&D director Arthur Roeling. Vetus is celebrating its 60 year anniversary this year. “The cooperation was comparable with the actual integration: smooth and intuitive, making the entire boating experience more enjoyable and effortless”.
“The collaboration between Honda Motor EU and Ultraflex continues with enthusiasm, thanks to which it is possible to equip the outboard engines with high performance servo-assisted steering and electronic steer by wire,” says Piero Gai, Ultraflex CEO. “In particular, we are proud to present this year, together with Honda Motor Europe, the IntegraJStm electronic driving system interfaced with Vetus BOW PRO shunting propellers.”
Sea trials of the new system are taking place throughout the Genoa Boat Show onboard a Ranieri Next 275 with a single BF350, located on berth N199.
