Electronic Vessel Control
Volvo Penta’s Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) is an advanced, fully integrated system that brings together all aspects of boat operation – from gear shift to steering and throttle to trim and data monitoring. EVC can utilise intuitive joystick handling and new cutting-edge features, EVC simplifies your boating experience and enhances performance.
EVC started at generation A in 2003. There are still many boats running early EVC systems from A to D. Volvo Penta is running a campaign to modernise any vessel from an earlier version of EVC to EVC E-4 this will unlock all the new features and benefits of updated hardware and software, features like assisted docking and DPS.
Why Upgrade?
Many of the older EVC software systems are no longer supported or updated and are coming to there end of life. Also, older systems have limitations on new software and features that have since been added. Assisted docking is one feature only available on EVC E-4 and newer. The upgrade consists of all new hardware and new software.
Easy Docking
Take the stress out of docking. With joystick controls you gain precise maneuverability forward, reverse, and even sideways allowing for confident navigation in tight spaces. IPS vessels can also benefit from new SUS motors that come as standard with any EVC upgrade, these can be optioned with a new top box for quitter operation, and modern features.
Autopilot, Cruise Control & More
Relax and let EVC do the work. There are optional features that include Glass Cockpits, autopilot system, cruise control, trim assist, assisted docking, radar, AIS, fuel burn data, settings tailored for water sports, and much more you can add to your upgrade.
Customisable to Your Vessel
EVC is not a one-size-fits-all solution. At Aqua Power Marine, we tailor your EVC upgrade to match your vessel and preferences. Choose the features and options that matter most to you and your boating style. Talk to our experts today to find the right fit.
Here at Aqua Power Marine we’ve had the pleasure of maintaining the Riviera vessel Esmerelda for several years now. Recently, the boat had a series of electrical component failures—unsurprising given the age of some of the onboard systems – so an upgrade was a good idea. Over the past 12 months alone, issues arose with the transducer, Raymarine autopilot, Raymarine chart plotter, and the Volvo Penta joystick control.
With so many aging components reaching end-of-life, we proposed a comprehensive modernisation through a Volvo Penta EVC (Electronic Vessel Control) upgrade. Volvo Penta is offering “trade in deals” on any EVC A to D system. This solution not only addressed the faults in the Volvo Penta system but also gave us an opportunity to overhaul outdated navigation, sonar, and control interfaces.
To help the owner visualise the transformation, we photographed the current dashboard and mocked up several layout options using Photoshop. Since an EVC upgrade significantly changes both the function and aesthetic of a vessel’s helm, these visuals helped the client make confident decisions about screen sizes, layouts, and features.
After careful planning and consultation, we finalised a package that included:
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Three Volvo Penta Glass Cockpit displays (two 7-inch and one 16-inch)
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A mid-range thru-hull transducer offering excellent performance for its price
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A Volvo Penta reactor autopilot system with Shadow Drive
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GHC autopilot control display
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GPS map card
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Garmin network expander
Once all components arrived, we began by removing the outdated systems. On the Volvo Penta side, this meant removing the old joystick, IPS SUS motors, PCUs, and HCUs. We also replaced the traditional ignition system with a new key fob and start/stop button panel.
To accommodate the new displays, we modified the dash and installed new wiring looms throughout the vessel. After the onboard installations were complete, we lifted the boat to install the new transducer. Despite being a budget-friendly option, the new transducer delivered impressive image quality and detail.
Upon handover, the customer was thrilled with the result. During the sea trial, we walked through the new systems. One standout feature was the autopilot’s Auto Guidance—allowing the owner to simply select a destination and let the vessel safely navigate itself. This upgrade has not only modernised Esmerelda but also significantly boosted its resale value.