Personal Watercraft Industry: Promoting Boating Safety Through Innovation. BRP has introduced on select 2009 Sea-Doo watercraft models various new features under i-Control, which includes an intelligent suspension and the first on-water braking system. The result of this new technology is on-demand stopping, greater situational awareness, optimal low-speed maneuvering and improved safety. This innovation has been recognized as a major contribution to water safety since it provides more control for the users.
5. Innovations Tilt Steering & Wide handlebars Digital speedometer& fuel gauges Cruiser seats Rearview mirrors Four stroke engine Fold-down re-board step Hull design Storage Space Forward/neutral/reverse Ski tow hook Off-Power Assisting Steering System
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7. Personal Watercraft Industry: Promoting Boating Safety Through Innovation Maureen Healey Executive Director of PWIA September 29, 2009
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Talking Points: Among the most environmentally-friendly motorized boats on the water today. Technological advancements since 1998 have resulted in 90% reduction in emissions and 75% sound reduction. All PWC sold today comply with applicable federal & state emissions and sound requirements. I am so proud of our members for their commitment to these technological advancements and providing the best, most user-friendly features on any watercraft. They are constantly reinventing themselves in order to enhance a rider’s experience, providing them with the most effective tools to ensure their safety. Roger Hagie, the Chairman of the Board for PWIA and the Director of Public Affairs for Kawasaki is in the audience today. And Caroline Emond, the Senior Advisor for Public Affairs at BRP, is also here and will talk with you shortly about a new, breakthrough feature. Both of these companies have been leaders in innovation. As we all know times are tough. Like so many industries, the PWC industry has had a downturn in sales this past year. However, our manufacturers continue to create and develop new technologies. They know that customer demand will be there in the long term and they want to make sure they are providing them with safest and best watercrafts.
Talking Points: The age of electronics has allowed PWC manufacturers the ability to include a host of new enhancements and possibilities. As result, PWC riders have a whole new level of control over their watercrafts, making it safer and easier to enjoy themselves on the water. Now, let’s take a look at some of these innovations.
Talking Points: First, the new hull design offers a combination of high stability and responsive handling in both calm and rough-water conditions. While some people thought a four-stroke engine would be too heavy for a PWC and if it tipped over it wouldn’t restart, these models have become the rock-solid foundation of the entire industry. Four-stroke models now account for four out of five PWC sold today. Some manufacturers have either discontinued producing two-stoke models altogether or have plans to cease their production in the near future. Some models have improved rear-view mirrors that mimic what you will find on your car, offering an increased 360 degree field of vision. Cruiser seats also make long rides even more luxurious, providing wrap-around comfort. Tilt-wheel adjustments on the wide handlebars also make it easy to customize a PWC’s controls and comfort unique to each operator. Also, the engine cut-off lanyards attached to the one’s wrist automatically cut-off the engines if one accidentally falls off the PWC. The digital electronic controls make the speedometer and fuel gauges easy to read as well. The reverse function is revered by all PWC operators. It makes approaching a jet dock or navigating around a busy boat launch virtually worry-free. The fold-down re-boarding step provides riders an easier and more comfortable re-boarding process in deep water. The ski tow eye makes it easy and secure attachment to tow a water skier. Storage space - Between an easy to access water-tight glove box, large storage lockers in the bow, and additional under-seat compartments on some PWC models, there’s always enough space for a tow line, extra life jacket, snorkel gear, and a packed lunch. Off-Power Assisted Steering System assists a drive with maneuverability in off-power situations.
Talking Points: Now I would like to turn it over to Caroline to discuss the PWC industry’s latest technological break through - Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC). This features advance technologies never seen before on PWC, including the first ever breaking system. While I can go on and on about how beneficial this will be for millions of PWC riders, I will let the expert take over. Please welcome Caroline Edmond, Senior Advisor for Public Affairs at BRP.