Olathe

Olathe – September 04, 2026 -- Garmin has launched SmartDrive, an autopilot system for sailboats and catamarans up to 45 feet and 33,000 pounds of maximum displacement, priced at $3,499.99 as a standalone actuator.

SmartDrive uses a brushless linear actuator with a built-in ECU

The system is the first sailboat autopilot to pair a brushless linear actuator with an integrated ECU and rudder feedback sensor, according to Garmin. As part of the Reactor 40 Corepack, it delivers up to 1,050 pounds of maximum thrust to help maintain steady rudder control.

Fewer cables mean simpler installation

SmartDrive operates with fewer cables and external components than typical setups, and its form factor matches other linear actuators on the market. Garmin designed it to serve as a direct replacement for retrofit installations, and it connects to compatible Garmin multifunction displays via the NMEA 2000 network.

OLATHE – September 04, 2026 -- Garmin has launched the JL Audio M200 series, a new lineup of marine speakers and subwoofers priced from $199.99 to $349.99, expanding its M-series audio lineup for boaters.

The speakers come in three sizes with distinct sound roles

The M200 series includes 6.5-inch and 7.7-inch speakers alongside a 10-inch subwoofer. The speakers use a 1-inch edge-driven silk dome tweeter with a neodymium magnet, handling up to 60 watts RMS for smooth, warm sound. The subwoofer features an injection molded polypropylene cone and rubber surround, delivering 250-watts RMS power handling for deep bass with minimal distortion.