Steering wheel-mounted autopilot for quick installation without modifying steering

The Searebbel, a compact autopilot, has arrived on the powerboat market. Integrated directly into the steering wheel, it operates without a remote control unit or complex wiring. A solution designed to simplify the equipment of motorized pleasure craft.

Autopilots are evolving towards more compact, easier-to-install systems. The MobilePilot SeaRebbel is part of this trend, with its architecture fully integrated into the steering wheel. This technical choice changes the way we approach fitting out a motorboat, particularly for refits or on units already in service.

Steering-wheel-mounted autopilot

The principle is based on a motorized flywheel that houses all the components required for automatic steering. Motor, sensors and control electronics are integrated into a single part. No external control unit or separate actuator is required.

This design allows the system to be adapted to all steering systems, whether mechanical, electrical or hydraulic. The system acts directly on steering wheel rotation, making it independent of the type of transmission installed on board.

Quick installation without modifying the boat

Installation replaces the existing steering wheel. No structural work on the boat is required. No drilling, cable routing or hydraulic connections are required.

Installation is limited to removing the original steering wheel and installing the motorized one. This approach greatly reduces boat downtime, and means that installation can be completed in less than 20 minutes, with no special tools required!

This simplicity is of particular interest to second-hand boats, rental units or owners wishing to avoid major work.

Electrical autonomy and independent operation

The autopilot has its own built-in rechargeable battery. This battery provides several hours of totally autonomous operation, without relying on the on-board electrical system.

A power cable is also supplied for extended or continuous use when the boat is powered up. The unit is designed for marine use, with an IP67 waterproof rating, suitable for conditions encountered at the helm.

Mobile application control

Pilot control is via a dedicated app, usable on smartphone or tablet. The interface lets you manage course keeping, route following and the use of waypoints.

The trajectory can be adjusted directly on the smartphone screen, with helm resumption possible at any time just by an action on the steering wheel. This ergonomic design is designed to reduce helmsman fatigue during repetitive or prolonged sailing. The pilot can also be engaged or disengaged via the push-button just behind the steering wheel.

NMEA 2000 compatibility and scalability

The system can be connected to an NMEA 2000 network via an additional module. This link enables integration with an existing GPS plotter and tracking of routes from on-board electronics.

Remote software updates ensure that functionality evolves over time, without any physical intervention on the hardware.

Origin, availability and positioning

The MobilePilot SeaRebbel has been developed by a Spanish brand specializing in marine electronics. It is offered in white and matte gray (available at a later date) and distributed via the Navicom network.

The advertised retail price is ?3,490 incl. VAT. This positioning targets powerboaters looking for a compact, self-contained autopilot that's quick to install, without having to modify their existing steering system.

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