On October 1, the 2019 IBEX Innovation Awards, managed by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and judged by Boating Writers International (BWI), were presented at the IBEX Show in Tampa FL.  Eight BWI judges with various technical backgrounds in boating selected the new product winners from over 100 entries submitted by marine trade companies – the largest program to date. The program has evolved into one of the marine industry’s most prestigious honors.

OEM Electronic: Dometic optimus E-actuator

Dometic’s industry first all-electric remote mount steering actuator won for category OEM Electronic. The Optimus Electric Steering Actuator mounts directly on the motor in place of the existing hydraulic steering cylinder. With its powerful drive train, integrated proprietary position sensors and embedded electronics, it eliminates the need for separately mounted hydraulic actuators currently used. “Ditch the hoses, ditch the hydraulic fluid, ditch the pumps, people – the Optimus E-Actuator eliminates them all,” said Lenny Rudow, one of the BWI judges as motivation for the award. 

Mechanical systems: Dometic Turbo Global Air Conditioning unit

Dometic’s unique global air conditioning unit Turbo Global Air Conditioning won for category Mechanical Systems. The Dometic Turbo Global Air Conditioning unit with versatile compressor eliminates the need of any voltage regulating devices and literary takes away national borders for vessels. Boaters can now just plug into any shore power at any harbor around the world. “The air conditioner to replace them all. Dometic goes global with support for any voltage around the world,” said Phil Gutowski, one of the BWI judges as motivation for the award. 

About Dometic

Dometic is a global market leader in the mobile living industry. Millions of people around the world use Dometic products in outdoor, residential, and professional applications. Our motivation is to create smart, sustainable, and reliable products with outstanding design for an outdoor and mobile lifestyle in the areas of Food & Beverage, Climate, Power & Control, and Other Applications. Dometic employs approximately 8,000 people worldwide, had net sales of SEK 27.8 billion (USD 2.6 billion) in 2023 and is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden.