Foil Drive Throttle Controller V2

The Foil Drive Throttle Controller V2 is a wireless handheld controller designed for use with the Foil Drive electric foil assist system. Released in May 2023 by Australian company Foil Drive, the V2 replaced the original Gen1 controller with a higher-powered wireless link and an expanded feature set. It serves as either a replacement controller or a standalone upgrade for riders already running a Foil Drive Assist or Assist PLUS Gen2 kit. The controller pairs with the Foil Drive power box mounted on the board, giving riders variable throttle control over their electric motor while paddling into waves or cruising between sets.

The V2 introduced a stronger wireless signal, addressing connectivity issues that some riders experienced with the Gen1 unit in choppy water or on lower-volume boards. It also added an on-controller telemetry display that cycles through throttle percentage, motor RPM, battery voltage, temperature, and remaining battery percentage — data points that were not available on the original controller.

• Compatibility: Foil Drive Assist (Gen2) and Assist PLUS (Gen2)
• Controller battery life: Approximately 5 hours
• Charge time: Approximately 1.5–2 hours (wireless charge pad)
• Charging method: Wireless via included USB charge pad
• Display data: Throttle %, motor RPM, battery voltage, temperature, battery % remaining
• Throttle limit range: 20–100% (adjustable)
• Cruise control: Pre-set value engaged by triple tap
• Firmware: V21.31 or higher
• Included: V2 wireless controller, wrist floaty, charge pad with Micro USB cable, reusable silicone tie

The V2 controller suits any rider using a Foil Drive Gen2 system who wants reliable throttle response and access to real-time telemetry. Its adjustable throttle limit — which can be dialed down to 20% of maximum output — makes it practical for newer riders or smaller/lighter foilers who benefit from capped power during the learning phase. The throttle lock function, added in a January 2024 firmware update, prevents accidental motor engagement, which adds a layer of safety for riders still building board confidence.

More experienced riders can take advantage of cruise control to lock in a consistent assist level, freeing their focus for wave selection and foil trim. The improved wireless signal is particularly relevant for prone foilers or anyone riding compact, low-volume boards where the controller sits closer to the water and further from the power box.

Within the Foil Drive ecosystem, the V2 Throttle Controller sits between the discontinued Gen1 unit and the newer V3 controller. The V3, which Foil Drive describes as backwards compatible with Gen2 hardware, adds a gear-based control mode alongside the traditional variable throttle. The V2 remains a functional and widely available option for riders who do not need the V3's additional control modes. One compatibility note: riders running the original Foil Drive Assist (not PLUS) can use the V2 controller but will not have access to telemetry data, as that feature depends on hardware in the Assist PLUS power box. Riders considering alternatives in the electric foil assist category may also look at systems from Takuma or Ride Engine, though those use proprietary controllers tied to their own drive units and are not cross-compatible with Foil Drive hardware.