FROM VOLVOPENTA.COM
Electronic Vessel Control (EVC)
EVC is Volvo Penta’s drive-by-wire system that connects multiple helm stations with engines and drives. The EVC system controls and monitors the complete Volvo Penta delivery including throttle, gearshift, steering and trim.
Upgrade kits allow you to add the latest features in the service market, enhancing your boating experience.
What is Electronic Vessel Control?
Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) is Volvo Penta’s advanced system for managing and integrating all electronic functions on a vessel. Designed to enhance performance, reliability, and user experience, EVC seamlessly connects the engine, transmission, and other critical systems, providing intuitive control and monitoring.
For our business partners, EVC represents a significant technological advancement that simplifies installation, reduces maintenance, and offers unparalleled precision and efficiency in vessel operation. By leveraging EVC, you can ensure you benefit from the latest in marine technology, leading to improved satisfaction.
EVC features and benefits
Multi station management
The later EVC systems can manage up to six helm stations on a single boat, providing seamless control and flexibility.
Versatile data communication
EVC offers multiple ways to communicate Volvo Penta onboard system data to the driver, ranging from traditional tachometers and gauges to Volvo Penta Glass Cockpit monitors.
The Volvo Penta Glass Cockpit monitors have navigation, radar, and sonar capabilities, offering a centralized and intuitive interface for all critical information.
Advanced control features
EVC includes a range of advanced control features that enhance maneuverability and ease of use:
- Trim Assist – Automatically adjusts the boat trim for optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
- Joystick Docking – Simplifies docking by allowing precise control of the vessel with a joystick.
- Autopilot – Maintains a set course with minimal input, reducing the workload on the driver.
- Joystick Driving – Combines Autopilot with gear and throttle control into the Volvo Penta Joystick.
- Dynamic Positioning System (DPS) – Keeps the vessel in a fixed position with the use of GPS.
- Assisted Docking – Provides additional control and safety during joystick docking maneuvers with the use of GPS, making it easier to control the boat in tight spaces.
By integrating these features, the EVC system not only enhances the performance of the vessel but also significantly improves the overall boating experience for both drivers and passengers.
Evolution of EVC, the generations
Launched in 2003 as a successor to the EDC system, Volvo Penta’s Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) has continually evolved to incorporate advanced functionalities and meet the growing demands of modern marine technology.
Shortly after its introduction, Volvo Penta launched the Inboard Performance System (IPS), adding electronic steering capabilities to the EVC system. Subsequent updates to engines and drives needed more powerful ECUs onboard, driving the development of new EVC generations.
EVC-mc
Designed for mechanically controlled engines, EVC-mc was used for gasoline engines and the D3 until 2009. This system primarily served to display engine data at the helm and included a Helm Interface Unit (HIU).
EVC-ec
For electronically controlled engines, EVC-ec supports a range of engines including the D4-D6, D8, D9, D11, D12, D13, and D16, as well as post-2009 D3 and gasoline engines. These installations feature a Propulsion Control Unit (PCU) and a Helm Control Unit (HCU) configuration.
EVC-ec has evolved through multiple generations, including EVC-A, EVC-B, EVC-B2, EVC-C, EVC-C2, EVC-C3, EVC-D, EVC-E, EVC-E2, EVC-E3, EVC-E4, and the latest EVC-2. While EVC-A to EVC-E4 utilize similar CAN communication technology, EVC-2 use a more advanced communication protocol.
EVC generation upgrade
Electronic development has advanced rapidly over the last 20–30 years, leading to the replacement or discontinuation of older components. To support customers with spare parts in the future, Volvo Penta recognized the need to address the challenge of multiple EVC generations. With EVC-E already having the largest user base, the decision was made to upgrade all EVC-ec A to D generations to the latest EVC-E version, EVC-E4.
Benefits with EVC generation upgrade
Enhance your boating experience with access to the latest Volvo Penta features, previously unavailable with older Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) versions. Complete, pre-programmed EVC upgrade kits are now available to convert the original EVC control system to the modern EVC-E4 generation.
Each competitively priced kit includes the latest style helm components and comes with a 2-year factory Volvo Penta warranty.