Caterpillar Set to Showcase New Pod Propulsion Engine

MarineLink.com October 29, 2013

Pod controls: Image courtesy of Caterpillar Marine

Caterpillar Marine say they will unveil a significant product milestone at the 2013 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, introducing the Cat® Three60 Pod 650, which is specifically designed for the new Cat C8.7 electronically controlled marine propulsion engine.

The new Cat Three60 Pod 650 revolutionizes docking and slow-speed maneuvering for diesel-powered yachts. Available in spring 2015, the pod is specifically designed to be remarkably easy for customers to learn, with easy ‘push, twist and go’ maneuvering. Visitors attending the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show will have the opportunity for a hands-on introduction to the pod at the Caterpillar booth, where a complete Cat Three60 Pod 650 and simulator will be on display.

The Cat Three60 Pod 650 incorporates proprietary technology providing vessel operators with access to full or incremental power in any direction as well as smooth shifting from forward to reverse. The pod joystick and lever head provide smooth operation and high confidence when maneuvering utilizing two modes: lever mode and joystick mode. The lever mode controls the pod propeller drive trains using the lever head, while pod vectoring is controlled by the digital steering helm. In joystick mode, the joystick controls engine speed, gear and pod angle using intuitive fingertip movements of the joystick for slow vessel maneuvering.

“The introduction of the new pod solution is an exciting launch and represents our continuing commitment to provide integrated propulsion packages to our customers,” Bruce Strupp, Caterpillar Marine Propulsion Solutions Manager noted. “Strategically we are dedicating resources to develop products and services that provide comprehensive and innovative systems solutions for our customers and are pleased to launch the new pod at the Fort Lauderdale boat show.”

This new product will be shown at the Caterpillar booth #1212 at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, October 31st – November 4th, 2013, in Fort Lauderdale, FL.