Reflecting on a Remarkable Year: A Conversation with Meme Poon, General Manager of Grandtech Hong Kong
In an industry traditionally dominated by male leaders, Meme Poon, the General Manager of Grandtech Hong Kong, stands as an inspiring symbol of women’s empowerment. With her unwavering passion for boating and yachting lifestyle, she has not only made her mark but has also played a pivotal role in propelling Grandtech to new heights.
An Overview of Grandtech’s Business in 2023
In the face of unprecedented challenges in the boating industry over the past few years, Grandtech has remained resilient and adaptive. With the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic behind us, we have observed a notable growth in the boating community. Throughout this challenging period, we have remained committed to delivering exceptional service to our valued clients.
In the challenging year of 2022, we handled a total of 24 pre-delivery commissions (PDCs). It is crucial to acknowledge the collective efforts of the global yachting industry in overcoming supply chain disruptions and market uncertainties during this period. Despite the challenges, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to delivering excellent service to our clients.
As of December 2023, our team at Grandtech has successfully completed 25 PDCs. This reflects our continued dedication to meeting the needs of our clients and striving for excellence in the boating industry.
A Diverse Client Portfolio
Grandtech takes immense pride in serving an esteemed clientele that includes dealers representing renowned brands such as Princess Yacht, Jeanneau Prestige, Galeon, Sunseeker, Azimut, Absolute, and Sessa. In the past year, Grandtech had the privilege of adding Nimbus, Invictus and Du Four to their portfolio, expanding our offerings to cater to a wider range of boating enthusiasts in Hong Kong.
Top-Notch Products in 2023
Grandtech’s success can be attributed to its partnership with Volvo Penta, a brand known for its excellence in marine products and maintenance. In 2023, Grandtech proudly showcased Volvo Penta’s exceptional innovations. One such product is the Inboard Performance System (IPS), which has evolved over nearly two decades to enhance power, performance, fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and control.
Volvo Penta has also integrated electronic systems into their products, providing enhanced functionality and control. Notable features include the Joystick Control, allowing boaters to navigate tight spaces effortlessly and make precise movements, and the Dynamic Positioning System (DPS), improving maneuverability and ease of operation.
Moreover, Volvo Penta’s Assisted Docking Technology has been a game-changer for yacht owners. Overcoming challenges posed by wind, currents, and tight spaces, this technology utilizes sensors, GPS, and advanced control systems to maneuver and position yachts accurately during the docking process.
The marine industry has seen a growing emphasis on connectivity and digital solutions, and Volvo Penta has met this demand with its Easy Connect system. Boaters can now access real-time data, including their boat’s position, engine hours, fuel consumption, and journeys performed, via the integrated cloud service function, providing a portable dashboard accessible at any time.
In 2023, the grand opening of Volvo Penta’s online store marks an exciting milestone that brings marine excellence directly to customers’ fingertips. With a wide range of top-quality marine products available, Volvo Penta offers recreational enthusiasts the opportunity to elevate their boating adventures. Whether it’s powerful engines, innovative propulsion systems, genuine parts, or cutting-edge accessories, the online store provides a convenient and comprehensive platform for customers to find everything they need to enhance their on-water experiences.
Engaging with the Community
Grandtech has been actively engaging with the boating community through various marketing initiatives aimed at fostering connections and building relationships. We continue to immerse ourselves in vibrant boating events, including the Hong Kong International Boat Show held in Marina Cove. These events provided us a platform to showcase our products and services directly to boating enthusiasts, industry professionals, and potential customers. In 2024, we will continue to demonstrate our commitment to understanding the needs and desires of the boating community.
In addition to our involvement in the boating sector, Grandtech recognizes the power of sports as a universal language that brings people together. As part of our dedication to supporting the sports community, we proudly sponsored the 2026 World Cup Asia Qualifiers. By aligning ourselves with such a prominent sporting event, we aimed to connect with a broader audience and promote the values of teamwork, competition, and camaraderie. We firmly believe that sports transcend boundaries and unite individuals from diverse backgrounds, creating a shared sense of passion and excitement.
Embracing the Passion for Boating
With over 10 years of experience in the yacht industry, Meme’s passion for boating has not diminished over the years. She emphasized the importance of regular maintenance to ensure engine performance and longevity. During this extraordinary year, Grandtech has demonstrated resilience, adaptability and the pursuit of excellence, optimizing the team’s expertise in boat maintenance and will continue to provide owners with peace of mind and seamless boating in 2024.
As we bid farewell to an eventful year, Meme Poon and the entire Grandtech team are eagerly looking forward to new adventures and possibilities in the boating and yachting lifestyle in the upcoming year.
Volvo Penta Joystick Driving wins IBEX Innovation Award
A game-changing innovation for the marine industry, the new Volvo Penta Joystick Driving was awarded a prestigious IBEX Innovation Award this year, in the “Propulsion Parts, Propellers” category, winning against a further 94 submissions. Launched in May, Volvo Penta’s groundbreaking technology integrates shift, steering and throttle into a single joystick control, allowing smoother maneuvers with the use of just one hand, for easier operations, more precise control, and a premium experience.
The award winners were announced on October 3, 2023 in Tampa, Florida, on the opening day of the International Boat Builders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX) – North America’s largest trade show event for marine industry professionals. Volvo Penta Joystick Driving won its award for showing clear leadership in its category, including an ability to advance the marine industry through better user experience, and enabling boaters to build a stronger connection with the environment around them.
“Joystick control has been around, but primarily used for docking, and Volvo Penta has taken to new heights with the innovative ability to drive the boat without touching the steering wheel. The system integrates shifting, steering, and throttle and easily installs into the driver’s armrest for ergonomic driving and comfort,” noted IBEX award judge, Steve Davis, from Boating Writers International.
Volvo Penta Joystick Driving can be used in all sizes and kinds of vessels, including commercial ships. The solution can be conveniently installed on the armrest of the driver’s seat, ensuring an ergonomic driving posture. The joystick is simply pushed forward to engage a gear, speed up or slow down, and released to remain at a certain speed. The acceleration is proportional to the angle of the joystick. When the joystick is pulled back, the throttle reduces, and the boat stops. To further enhance the driving experience, electronic gear shifting enables smooth acceleration and deceleration.
The IBEX Innovation Awards Program, now in its 20th year, is managed by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and judged by Boating Writers International (BWI). The awards program recognizes manufacturers and suppliers who bring new, innovative products to market in 15 different categories.
If you are interested in installing a Volvo Penta Control System, please feel free to contact us, we will provide excellent service and support and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
The Hong Kong International Boat Show: Showcasing Excellence with Volvo Penta Engines
Excitement is brewing as the Hong Kong International Boat Show returns this year, ready to dazzle boat enthusiasts and dealers alike. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Club Marina Cove, this highly anticipated four-day event, scheduled from November 30 to December 3, 2023, promises to be an unforgettable experience. One of the highlights of the show will be the collaboration between Grandtech and various dealers to showcase a stunning array of yachts equipped with Volvo Penta engines. Let’s delve into the details and explore the exceptional performance and quality these yachts have to offer.
Setting Sail with Volvo Penta Engines:
Volvo Penta, renowned for its cutting-edge marine propulsion systems, has partnered with leading yacht manufacturers to equip their vessels with engines that deliver outstanding performance, reliability, and fuel efficiency. Visitors at the Hong Kong International Boat Show will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the excellence that Volvo Penta engines bring to the boating industry.
Impressive Lineup of Yachts:
1. Absolute Navetta 58 and 60 Fly: These flybridge motor yachts feature Volvo Penta IPS engines, with the Navetta 58 equipped with twin D8-IPS800 engines and the Navetta 60 Fly featuring twin D11-IPS950 engines. These engines offer exceptional maneuverability, reduced emissions, and enhanced fuel efficiency.
2. Azimut Fly 68: Fitted with two D13-IPS1350 engines, the Azimut Fly 68 delivers impressive power and performance. The Volvo Penta IPS system ensures smooth handling and improved fuel economy, making it an ideal choice for boating enthusiasts seeking luxury and efficiency.
3. Sanlorenzo SX88: The SX88 superyacht boasts three D13-IPS1050 engines, combining power with eco-friendliness, the top cruising speed is up to 23 knots.
4. Fairline Squadron 50 and Beneteau Gran Turismo 45: The Squadron 50 features twin D6-IPS650 engines, while the Gran Turismo 45 is equipped with twin D6-IPS600 engines. These engines offer excellent performance, reduced noise and vibration, and improved fuel efficiency, ensuring a comfortable and efficient boating experience.
6. Sessa F47 and C38: The F47 features twin D6-IPS650 engines, while the C38 utilizes two 320hp Volvo Penta D4-DPI sterndrives. These engines offer a perfect balance of power and efficiency, ensuring a pleasurable boating experience.
7. Dufour 41: The Dufour 41 sailing monohull features a single 50hp Volvo Penta D2 saildrive, providing reliable and efficient propulsion for sailing enthusiasts.
8. Fountaine Pajot MY6 and Tanna 47: The MY6 power catamaran is powered by two D6-IPS480 engines, offering exceptional maneuverability and fuel efficiency. The Tanna 47 sailing catamaran features two 60hp D2 saildrives, combining power and reliability for an enjoyable sailing experience.
9. Sunseeker Manhattan 55, Invictus GT280, and Galeon 500 Fly: The Manhattan 55 boasts twin 800hp D13 engines, while the GT280 features two 350hp V8 engines. The Galeon 500 Fly is equipped with twin 725hp D11 engines. These Volvo Penta engines deliver impressive power, ensuring exhilarating performance and unforgettable journeys.
The Hong Kong International Boat Show is set to captivate boating enthusiasts with its exciting lineup of yachts equipped with Volvo Penta engines. From luxurious motor yachts to sleek sailing vessels, this showcase promises to redefine excellence in the maritime world. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to explore these stunning yachts up close and experience the exceptional performance, reliability, and fuel efficiency that Volvo Penta engines bring to the boating industry. Don’t miss this chance to witness firsthand the seamless integration of power, innovation, and craftsmanship that these remarkable yachts represent.
Seamless Integration and Enhanced Control: Volvo Penta’s Glass Cockpit Redefines Boating
In recent years, the marine industry has witnessed remarkable advancements in technology, transforming the way boats are designed and operated. A groundbreaking innovation in this realm is the Volvo Penta Glass Cockpit, a cutting-edge integrated navigation and control system that has redefined the boating experience.
Unveiling the Volvo Penta Glass Cockpit:
The Volvo Penta Glass Cockpit represents a leap forward in marine technology, seamlessly integrating multiple systems and displays into a single, intuitive interface. Designed to provide a comprehensive view of the boat’s performance, navigation, and engine data, this advanced cockpit system combines the functionality of traditional analog gauges with modern touch-screen displays, offering an unparalleled user experience.
Key Features and Functionalities:
The Glass Cockpit offered by Volvo Penta is a revolutionary integration system that enhances boating experiences by consolidating and simplifying the management of various onboard systems. Integrated with the Volvo Penta Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) system, the Glass Cockpit takes onboard integration to a whole new level. With this system, drivers can access and control navigation, engine monitoring, and entertainment functions all in one interface, promoting situational awareness and ease of operation, equipped with high-tech touchscreens.
- Collaboration with Garmin:
The Glass Cockpit System seamlessly combines Garmin’s industry-leading navigational features with the power of Volvo Penta’s Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) System. The multi-function display options range from 7 to 27 inches, catering to sports boats and large yachts alike. This system provides access to a wide range of capabilities, including radar, sonar, chart-plotter, 3D maps, instruments, sensors, and more from the Garmin Marine Network.
- Full customization:
Users can tailor the display layouts to suit their specific needs and preferences, and even switch between layouts using the Volvo Penta joystick. This integration extends to control functions such as turning cabin lights or music on and off, all within the touch-screen interface.
- Designed for Explorers:
The Glass Cockpit collects and displays crucial navigation data, ensuring confident and safe travels. By gathering information from the engine, driveline, and onboard electronics, users have complete control over their boat, wherever their adventure takes them. The system is complemented by the accuracy of multiband GPS, providing users with comprehensive and reliable information.
- User-friendly Touch-screen Displays:
Offer intuitive access to information and controls. Boaters can easily customize their display layouts, adapting the information presented to their specific requirements. The system integrates advanced GPS, chart plotting, and radar systems, providing real-time navigation information with exceptional clarity. This enables users to track their position, set waypoints, and monitor weather conditions for a safer and more efficient voyage.
Installation and New Product Updates:
The Glass Cockpit System is fully integrated with Volvo Penta’s features including assisted Docking System, Joystick Control, Autopilot and Garmin’s Surround View camera system.
Volvo Penta has rolled out a major update for its Glass Cockpit that integrates with new-generation multifunction touchscreens developed by marine electronics specialist Garmin. The new Volvo Penta Glass Cockpit 9000 system was developed to make the most of Garmin’s new GPSMAP 9000 multifunction chartplotters that have adopted cinema-quality 4K resolution and up to seven times more processing power.
The new screens also come in sizes ranging from 19 inches to an industry-first 27 inches, and have been optimized so that they remain viewable from a wider range of angles, even in bright sunlight and while using polarized sunglasses.
The Volvo Penta Glass Cockpit represents a significant advancement in marine technology, revolutionizing the boating experience. With its seamless integration of navigation and engine monitoring, this state-of-the-art cockpit provides boaters with unparalleled safety, convenience, and control. The Glass Cockpit’s intuitive interface, connectivity, and advanced features empower boaters to make informed decisions, optimize efficiency, and enjoy their time on the water to the fullest. As Volvo Penta continues to innovate, we can expect further advancements that will shape the future of boating.
