EVINRUDE has thrown down the gauntlet to its outboard rivals by releasing a “G2” range of direct injection two-stroke engines featuring bold designs and impressive performance improvements.
In a first for the outboard sector, the new E-TECs feature custom colours and a radical design inspired by comic book action heroes.
The engines – initially available in 200, 225 and 300hp classes – also boast a range of performance innovations including more power, better fuel efficiency, inbuilt power steering, “clean” rigging, an internal 10l oil container, touch screen digital control panels and an automatic trim adjustment system.
Evinrude has further upped the ante by giving its G2 engines an unprecedented five year/500 hour service schedule plus a five year engine and corrosion warranty.
At a global launch function in Milwaukee, Evinrude executives heralded the engines as marking a “new era in outboards”.
International boating media were given details of computer modelling systems that resulted in engine designs that Evinrude says increase power by 20 per cent by reducing fuel use by 15 per cent.
Comparison data released by Evinrude claimed the G2 250 significantly outperformed Mercury’s Optimax Pro XS 250 and Yamaha’s V MAX SHO 250 while using less fuel.
Evinrude has also taken the lead in emissions reduction, stating the G2 engines are now the cleanest in the world with 75 per cent less emissions than any comparable four-stroke or DI two-stroke product.
The engines weigh in at 253 kilos, about 20 kilos heavier than the current series. Evinrude spokesmen said the extra weight was due to the power steering system and internal oil container, which would be included in actual boat weight regardless.
On-water testing on Lake Michigan revealed the engines feature impressive mid-range power. An innovative “iTrim” system allows even inexperienced operators to maximise boat performance while the power steering system provides precise handling.
While the technical details are worthy of further attention, it’s the unique cowling design and range of custom colours that gives the G2 E-TEC an immediate edge.
Inspired by the “Iron Man” action hero, the new outboards can only be described as “striking”. And the decision to offer a range of custom colour and trim options is nothing short of visionary. The engines come standard with either white or black panels with blue, red or grey colours available as options. Another 14 “accent colours” give the owner the choice to fully customise the engine.
It’s understood dealers will have colour displays available in-store so customers can choose colour arrangement prior to purchase. The purchase of extra panels means the owner can change the appearance of the engine at any time. It’s expected boat makers will custom match hull colours to the G2 line-up.
Aussie boat giant Telwater, maker of the Quintrex, Stacer and Savage brands, had a green-hued Quinnie matched with a G2 engine featuring the same colours on display at the global launch event in Milwaukee. Even the most hardened boating journalists appreciated the unique appeal of having a boat and engine in matching livery.
At this stage, it is expected the G2 E-TECS will begin full production in November and should be available in Australia before the end of the year. Evinrude executives said a range of horsepower classes would be delivered over the next three years with 115, 150 and 175hp models being seen as a priority for our local market.
Pricing details are as yet unknown, although an Evinrude spokesman said the engines would be “competitive”.
It is expected that the G2 engines will be displayed at the upcoming Sydney International Boat Show.
See ChooseYourETEC.com for more info and stay tuned for images, short videos and technical details.
