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The virtual International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference kicked off this morning with some exciting news with the announcement of the 2020 NMMA Innovation Award winners. In the Propulsion Parts category, Dometic earned an award for its Cable Power Assist that is designed for smaller single-outboard boats from 90 to 200 hp.
The judging panel that is made up of members from Boating Writer International said it’s a “Simple, self-contained solution for those looking for affordable electronic power steering in the 90 to 200 horsepower outboard range.”
The power-steering system is designed for a range of boats, but expects to have the biggest impact on pontoons boats as well as runabouts, RIBs and center consoles.
Building on its Optimus Outboard Electric Steering Actuator, Dometic created a more affordable system for lower-price-point boats, as more newcomers get into boating, Dometic president Eric Fetchko said during a virtual debut.
“The Optimus is a premium product … [and] that’s why the engineers have worked hard on this product to make sure we have an entry-level system that can make a small, 20-foot boat drive like a car,” Fetchko said. “It’s all about making the experience better for the boater.”
Product manager Dave Wolfe said the plug-and-play unit doesn’t require a certified electrician to install. “There are four bolts,” Wolfe said, adding that installation takes about 20 minutes. “In tests, we were able to swap it from boat to boat out on the water.”
It integrates with any existing SeaStar rack or rotary cable steering system, so there is no need to install new steering to take advantage of this breakthrough. It also works with either standard or tilt helms.
Electric Power Assist easily mounts to all major outboard brands and integrates with the boat’s mechanical steering. It reduces steering effort to levels similar to Dometic’s Electronic Power Steering, with quick response to the wheel and consistent steering effort from Starboard to Port.
Once this system is installed, the mechanical steering cable now only turns the power assist unit, while the electric steering actuator actually turns the engine load. This system differs vastly from competitive “electric helm” systems on the market, because it does not increase the load on the mechanical steering helm or cable. This ensures reliable long-term performance in real-world, on-the-water conditions. However, in the unlikely event the power assist unit stops functioning, a Failsafe System automatically reverts to standard mechanical steering.
The unit, which will be available to OEMs starting in May, will be available at retail for $1,600 around mid-2021, Wolfe said. For more information visit www.dometic.com.
