The Latest In Marine Engine Technology
The world of marine engines is always evolving to produce propulsion methods that exceed expectations. Just like in the automotive world, each year there’s a new innovation in how marine engines are designed and built.
If you’re interested in how ships and watercraft operate, read on as we examine the latest in marine engine propulsion and how these new engines are changing the industry.
Yamaha 4-Stroke Outboard
The latest outboard engine from Yamaha is a 4-cylinder designed to provide your vessel with exceptional power and speed while remaining lightweight. The engine comes in three different horsepower configurations: 115, 150, and 200. Each one uses variable valve timing technology to provide the most effective fuel distribution, thus providing advanced performance at any speed.
The new compact size of the engine provides an ideal weight-to-horsepower ratio, makes for more room in the watercraft, and won’t sacrifice any power like a larger engine would.
Caterpillar C8.7
The Caterpillar C8.7 is a revolutionary diesel engine that produces effective power while reducing the amount of turbo lag. With an electromagnetic clutch, you can switch from supercharged power to turbo power in a snap, which eliminates any engine hesitation. Planing and torque level is optimized at low speeds, and its 650 horsepower combined with the turbocharger gives you optimal acceleration.
Mercury Sterndrive and Outboard Technology
The new Mercury stern drive outboard engine is engineered to give you the power and response of a racing boat. Without having to increase the amount of fuel you must put in the motor, this sterndrive technology lets the engine produce 520 horsepower for exceptional speed.
The engine provides power steering and a gear case that’s built for enhanced ventilation for saltwater vessels that encounter rough and potentially damaging seas.
Lehr Propane Outboard
To promote a more environmentally friendly outboard engine, Lehr has developed a motor that operates on propane. Many consider propane to be the best alternative fuel solution for marine engines, and Lehr has designed a model that burns cleaner than gasoline without giving up its ability to perform.
The propane engine is designed to give you five hours of full-throttle power and 14 hours of power at a normal cruising speed. Now you can equip your watercraft with a fuel-efficient engine that will transport you effectively and with more environmental friendliness.
Honda Jet Propulsion
Honda has three new options in the world of jet propulsion with 40-, 65, and 105-horsepower models. There is a power loss compared to propellers, but all of these models are able to bring Honda’s clean-burning features to the forefront.
The Honda 40 Jet offers maneuverability and high output charging and a great time out on the water with top features like jet drive, BLAST technology, and lean burn control. The 65 Jet goes where props are unable to, perfect for white river rapids, tricky bottom shallows, and sandbars. For the most power, the 105 Jet offers outstanding shallow water performance.
Evinrude iDock
The Evinrude iDock is available on twin-engine boats powered with E-TEC G2 engines, so you have docking confidence. With the aircraft gyroscope sensor technology, iDock is able to compensate for wind and current, making it easy to dock your boat.
The iDock joystick is the perfect fit for a pontoon boat with easy access to the dock as commanded from the center console.
Suzuki DF350A
Can you imagine 350 horsepower? Suzuki can with their DF350A. The design includes a pair of contra-rotating propellers, with contra-rotating props spinning in opposite directions on the single shaft, instead of having two different shafts.
The larger outboards of this era are needed to move large, heavy boats, and many are not delivering the torque needed to get all the weight on the plane. The twin propellers on the Suzuki DF350A have more blade area, which delivers plenty of lift to push the transom up and the bow down. This engine is also the largest displacement 4-stroke V6 engine meant for an outboard on the market today and weighs in at 727 pounds.
Yamaha F90 and F75
The new Yamaha 90-horsepower and 75-horsepower Midrange four strokes have received a complete redesign, as they’re faster, lighter, and more powerful than previous designs. The increase in displacement combined with an overall size drop makes the F90 sleeker and athletic. The lighter weight of the F75 is noticeable, too.
To keep the weight of the engine down and the efficiency up, the single overhead camshaft is employed, but four valves per cylinder are deployed. That means less mass in the cylinder head and reduced overall weight for the outboard. That being said, you’ll still get outstanding engine combustion with the four valves per cylinder.
The F90 also comes with a 25-inch shaft option, which makes it a great choice for a range of mid-size boaters and those inshore anglers searching for walleye or muskie.
Explore the Latest Marine Technologies Here at ATC
The marine engine world is developing new technologies that benefit a wide variety of purposes. Whether you’re looking for an engine that boosts acceleration, is fuel efficient, or that’s lighter yet rich in power, engine manufacturers are building products that will benefit your boat in every way you want. These engines keep getting better and more efficient, and there’s no ceiling for their potential.
If you’re interested in learning more about marine technology, you can download our free eBook Top 5 Ways to Boost Outboard Engine Performance.
