News from Honda Marine Media Contact / For more information: Clinton Lambert Honda South Africa (Pty) Ltd Tel +27 (11) 847-9400 Fax +27 (11) 847-9429
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For Background
Honda Marine: Decades of Leading-Edge Engine Technology and Environmental Commitment The Technology Spotlight From automobiles to motorcycles to power equipment, the Honda name is synonymous with a proud legacy of technological innovation and leadership. Honda Marine has remained at the forefront of this tradition and innovation for more than 30 years, working to continually change the shape of the marine industry. In 1973, Honda introduced the first full line of 4-stroke outboard engines long before other outboard manufacturers realized the advantages of this type of clean, reliable power and followed suit. Honda is the world’s preeminent manufacturer of engines, selling more than 21 million units in 2005. This high production volume, coupled with the company’s deep level of experience and commitment to precision manufacturing techniques, has allowed Honda to remain the leader in 4-stroke technology. Honda engineers work to ensure that every Honda outboard model – ranging from 2 to 225 horsepower – sets the standard for fuel efficiency and ease of operation, while staying true to the core Honda attributes of durability, quiet operation, quality, and reliability. Honda’s advanced 4-stroke technology reduces the user’s cost of operation
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Honda Marine : Technology and the Environment Page 2 because no oil is needed in combustion, and, like all Honda engines, the marine models offer Ultra-Low Emissions, exceed the 2006 EPA emissions standards as well as comply with strict ratings as determined by the California Air Resource Board (CARB). Honda continually perfects its marine engine line by incorporating technologies from its highly advanced automotive and racing heritage. In order to maximize power output and durability, Honda marine outboards are based on the sophisticated technology of Formula 1 and Indy cars, racing motorcycles, and street vehicles. A Honda-powered racecar, in fact, captured the 2005 Indy 500 title – further testament to Honda’s leading engine technology. In addition, many of Honda’s marine outboards also include exclusive technological features found in the company’s most popular automobile engines, including the Acura MDX, Accord, CR-V, Element, and Civic. The unparalleled performance, power, and reliability of the Honda Marine 4stroke engine line is attributed to a number of exclusive technological features such as VTEC, Honda’s Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control. First debuting in the high-performance Acura NSX supercar, VTEC technology has since been integrated into the designs of both the BF225 and BF150 marine engines, providing these flagship models a unique blend of power, torque, and efficiency at any speed. In both these engines, VTEC works to vary the lift and duration of the intake valve opening to deliver optimal performance at both low and high rpm, resulting in peak performance at all speeds. The technology actually provides broader, flatter torque curve and smooth power delivery throughout the engine’s entire operating range, allowing the operator to enjoy both outstanding performance and impressive fuel economy. Dual-Stage Induction, Lean Burn Feedback, a 3-Way Cooling System, and a 4-Front Corrosion Protection System (which includes a patented paint process, sacrificial anodes and stainless steel components) are just a few of the other innovative
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Honda Marine : Technology and the Environment Page 3 design components that work together to deliver excellent power and durability throughout the acceleration range of the engine line. In addition, all new Honda outboard engines for recreational use in both fresh and salt water have a limited, 2-year warranty that is the same on the last day as it is on the first. Honda Marine outboard engines also are low maintenance due to precision engineering which, in turn, means tighter tolerances, better performance, and quieter and longer lasting engines. “When you spend more than 250 days a year on the water, reliability means everything. That’s why I trust my Honda outboards,” said Captain Jim Barlett, a 35-year sportfishing charter veteran in Miami, Florida. In 2006, Honda Marine EFI engines secured the “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Four-Stroke Engines” in the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Marine Engine Competitive Study for the second year in a row. The study clearly indicates that boat owners are increasingly aware that higher technology engines deliver a superior overall boating experience, and that there is an increased demand for quiet, efficient, clean-running engines. The Honda Marine 2006 model year sets the bar even higher, with an array of industry-leading innovations in outboard engine technology design and precision manufacturing. The attached glossary provides a comprehensive summary of features, benefits, and design enhancements for all Honda Marine four-stroke outboard engine models, further illustrating that Honda constantly innovates engine technology, providing superior performance for its ever-growing consumer base of sport anglers around the globe. “Not all 4-strokes are created equal, and Honda Marine is proud to lead the industry and set the standard for excellence with new innovations, products, and design enhancements,” said Robin Senger, Honda Marine Marketing. “The Honda advantage is
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Honda Marine : Technology and the Environment Page 4 ingenuity at its best. Consumers everywhere see it at the fuel pump, hear it on the water, and feel it with superior performance.”
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Honda Marine : Technology and the Environment Page 5 Environmental Responsibility is Always Job One For nearly 40 years, Honda 4-stroke outboard engines have been at the forefront of demonstrating that ultra-low emission levels are not only possible, but necessary to protect waterways everywhere. All Honda engines are environmentally-responsible, exceeding EPA standards for 2006. In fact, most models already have secured the highest CARB 3-Star rating for meeting the rigorous California Air Resource Board’s standards for 2008. As a leading expert in 4-stroke engine technology, Honda uses its experience as the world’s largest engine manufacturer to perfect 4-strokes that are clean, quiet and economical. While 2-stroke engines rely on gas or air to carry a thin oil film to critical components, Honda 4-stroke engines bathe every internal component in oil under constant pressure. Ports in 2-stroke cylinders and pistons accelerate piston and ring wear, but because there are no intake and exhaust ports in 4-stroke cylinders or pistons, they can run with tighter tolerances for longer life. By extension, because of a cleaner, cooler-running, 4-stroke design, all Honda outboard engines ranging from 2 to 225 hp require less maintenance and servicing than 2-stroke engines. Maintenance of these engines actually mirrors that of caring for a car engine, from filling the oil, to checking the oil with a calibrated oil stick, to replacing the filter. Annual maintenance of these outboards is as simple as changing the oil and applying a small amount of grease at key points to ensure lubrication.
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Honda Marine : Technology and the Environment Page 6 The Honda Environment Statement As a responsible member of society determined to help preserve the global environment, Honda makes concerted efforts to contribute to human health and preservation of the global environment in each phase of its corporate activities and to staying at the forefront of such endeavors. About Honda Power Products Honda Power Products, with headquarters in Midrand, Gauteng, consists of four distinct operating units: Honda Engines, Honda Marine, Honda Power Equipment and Honda Exports. The division’s products, including generators, lawnmowers, waterpumps, tillers, trimmers, general-purpose and marine outboard engines, are produced in Honda plants around the globe. ### Editor’s Note:
Honda Marine, a division of Honda South Africa (Pty) Ltd., markets a complete range of outboard marine engines. Its comprehensive product line is powered exclusively by environmentally advanced 4-stroke engines. Consumer information, including model overviews and updates, video clips, and complete specifications regarding Honda products, is available at www.honda.co.za For product inquiries and dealer locations, please call 011 847 9400
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