When 4-stroke outboards entered the market more than a decade ago, venerable 2-stroke technology seemed to be riding into the sunset. Evinrude is about to turn that notion on its head with the introduction of a 2-stroke unlike anything you’ve seen.
Earlier this month, BRP gave dealers and the marine press a sneak peek at its next generation of Evinrude E-TEC 2-strokes. The E-TEC G2 is the first outboard the manufacturer has built “from the prop shaft to the flywheel” — the company’s first totally new product in 38 years — and BRP promises as much as 75 percent fewer emissions, 15 percent better fuel efficiency and 20 percent more torque (especially out of the hole and at midrange) than leading 4-strokes.
The 250-hp H.O. G2 will burn 21 gallons an hour at wide open throttle, compared with 24 gph for a comparable 4-stroke, says Jason Eckman, the company’s product marketing manager. Its carbon monoxide emissions of 570 parts per million at idle are the “lowest-ever total emissions” from an outboard, he says, adding that G2s will have 40 percent more battery-charging capacity at idle, compared with the first generation of E-TECs.
The G2 is also the first outboard by any manufacturer specifically designed for the direct-injection system, BRP says.
When the engines hit the market this fall, consumers will have the option of 200-, 225-, 250- and 300-hp models. BRP did not disclose retail pricing, but Chris Berg, director of marketing and strategic planning, says it “will be competitively priced with comparable fully rigged 4-stroke competitors.”
The line will be backed by a “5-5-5” warranty of 5-year engine and corrosion protection and 500 hours with no dealer-scheduled maintenance.
The brain of the engine — the Engine Management Module — adjusts performance to properly break in the engine, regardless of how the consumer runs it, according to BRP. The module also delivers automatic storage and winterization features.
BRP says the G2s weigh 539 to 558 pounds, a little heavier than other 2-strokes in part because of components such as power steering and a 2-gallon oil reservoir. Exclusive features include integrated hydraulic power steering with three levels of assist (minimal, medium and maximum), an i-Trim automatic trim system and dual-axis rigging that routes all engine cables through one tube, making for a clean, clutter-free transom.
Although BRP touts the inner workings, it’s the exterior of the G2 that makes the first impression. Gone are the smooth, soft curves, replaced by a more angular shape. Five color options and 14 accent colors are designed to help customers match the look of their engine to their boat.
Look for the new Evinrude E-TEC G2 at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October and watch for a report on the G2s in the August issue of Soundings.
