TECH FOR THE WIN

Technology is changing more rapidly than ever before in the marine industry. Diesel-electric hybrid engines. Thumb-size satellite communications devices. Cool new anodized coatings. More power and more control are now standard, not optional. We examined a cross-section of the industry, from propulsion, electronics and systems to tackle and gear, for some of the most significant advances to hit the water in 2021—and well beyond.

PROPULSION

CATERPILLAR C32B

The much-anticipated new high-performance offering from Caterpillar is now available with a roaring 2,433 metric horsepower power rating, plus the reliability and near-worldwide support that legions of Cat fans have come to expect from the brand. All new from the block up, it’s built on the reliable C32 platform, which also makes it a perfect option for repowers because it’s a drop-in replacement for previous versions, while delivering a 20 percent increase in power. It’s also 25 percent quieter at trolling speeds, thanks to an advanced unit injection fuel system that fires multiple injections of fuel per power stroke to keep the noise down.

“WE ARE EXTREMELY EXCITED TO BUILD ON OUR RECENT INTRODUCTION OF THE C32B BY BRINGING EVEN MORE POWER DENSITY TO THE INDUSTRY WITH OUR BEST-IN-CLASS V-12 ENGINE.”

“We are extremely excited to build on our recent introduction of the C32B by bringing even more power density to the industry with our best-in-class V-12 engine,” says Allen Bowman, Caterpillar marine product strategy lead for the C32. “This engine will be a difference-maker for the high-performance marine segment, both in power and