Today’s customers are constantly connected via smartphones, laptops, tablets and more. As boaters themselves, Volvo Penta’s product experts understand the importance of connectivity. The latest updates to the company’s Easy Connect application have been inspired by feedback from boaters to improve the connected experience, wherever they are.
“Our aim is to give boat owners the ability to connect and engage with their boat in a simplified and intuitive way – whether they are out on the water or back on land”, says Maria Andreasson, Project Manager for Easy Connect. “Already, we are seeing the trend, that – like cars – boats are becoming smarter and more connected. We are delivering ongoing updates to Easy Connect with a focus on the smart, connected boats.”
Volvo Penta Easy Connect provides users with data related to the engine, boat, and routes taken – directly to their smartphone or tablet – which can be viewed again when back on land. Since its launch on iOS in 2018, there have been several updates, including its introduction to Android devices, D1 and D2 engines, and Twin non-EVC, all of which have expanded the benefits to a broader audience. Now, the app offers even more.
A seamless experience
Owners can now create a Volvo Penta ID that’s connected to the Cloud. This enables users access to boat data across multiple devices, creating a seamless experience, and making it easier than ever to share trips and information with the whole family. As Easy Connect evolves, having a Volvo Penta ID account will give boaters even more access to key information and features.
Languages
With the new update, Easy Connect is available in 11 languages so owners can use the application in their desired language. “Having these language options should make it easier for boat owners to interpret and share data from the application with their local dealer for any service or support needs,” says Maria. Easy Connect is now available in the following languages:
- English
- French
- Dutch
- German
- Swedish
- Turkish
- Finnish
- Portuguese
- Danish
- Italian
- Spanish
Manuals
Boaters now also have easy access to the Volvo Penta owner’s manuals through Easy Connect. “The manual is one of the most visited pieces of content on the website,” says Maria. “Now that it’s integrated into Easy Connect, we are making sure boat owners have access to the latest information about their specific Volvo Penta solution.”
Communication to inform
Owners now get notifications to keep them informed about new features and current system updates. They can also share information through the mobile dashboard that allows them to provide data quickly and accurately to authorized Volvo Penta service dealers, lowering maintenance time and improving precision.
Increased user support
Answers to frequently asked questions are already accessible directly through the app, providing a quick way to get support. Easy connect users are able to get additional help through a dedicated email address, easyconnect@volvo.com, which will be linked from the app.
All these updates will be available from the App Store and Google Play in March 2019. For current app users, these updates will take place automatically and users will be prompted to create a Volvo Penta ID.
Looking to the future
“There are endless possibilities for how connectivity will evolve for boating,” explains Anders Thorin, Head of Marine Electronics. “Providing the ability for owners to connect to their boat in real-time is an area of focus for sure. Along the way, we can see that collaboration across many different stakeholders, including boat owners, will be essential to shaping the future.”
Volvo Penta want to hear from you
Volvo Penta invites people passionate about boating to engage in an online dialogue to share their ideas and desires for the future. See what Volvo Penta had to say, about the possibilities for tomorrow, in a recent Facebook Live event, and have the chance to influence the future of connected boating by contributing your own input on Volvo Penta’s Facebook page.