Evinrude unveils new mid-range outboards
By Adam Quandt
In an industry segment that tends to be focused on pushing horsepower limits, BRP’s Evinrude has focused on what BRP Marine Group president Tracy Crocker calls the heart of the outboard segment.
Today, Evinrude officially unveiled three new outboards in its E-TEC G2 product line, bringing into the fold a 115 H.O., 140hp and 150hp models.
“We like zigging when everyone else in the industry is zagging,” Crocker said.
The new models house a direct injection inline three-cylinder powerhead. Evinrude said that the new two-stroke outboards offer more torque and fuel efficiency at lower RPMs than comparable four-stroke engines.
With the introduction of the new engines, Evinrude includes next-generation technology such as digital shift and throttle, the iTrim control system, digital instrumentation, custom color panels and optional iSteer dynamic power steering into outboards from 115 H.O. to 300 horsepower.
Evinrude also added a new look and feel for the 2020 product year. All E-TEC G2 engines will have new premium graphics and give owners the option of white or slate gray frame. Two new propellers will also be available from Evinrude, the RX3 and RX4.
In addition, the 115 H.O. and 140 models will be available with premium controls and gauges, as well as a tiller option that feature touch troll and trim switches, LED’s for basic diagnostics and an NMEA 2000 connection for integration with external gauges and accessories.
By bringing next-generation technology as a standard to the mid-range outboards, BRP product manager Karl Sandstrom said that the idea is to bring the experience of a big boat user down to the smaller boats, where “a good majority of boat users are.”
All of the E-TEC G2 engines are worldwide emissions compliant and offer a user-friendly ownership experience with no break-in period, no dealer-scheduled maintenance for five-years or 500 hours, five-year factory backed service coverage and no engine oil changes.
“We are proud to continue the legacy of Evinrude innovation in 2019 and well into the future,” said Crocker. “By bringing the E-TEC advancements to the 115 H.O., 140HP and 150HP models, some of the most popular outboard sizes in the market, we are once again, delivering the pinnacle in innovation and performance that inspires confidence in each and every Evinrude owner as they pursue their life on the water.”
Crocker said consumers can expect Evinrude to bring something significant to the market about every six months.
In addition to new engines and technology, the BRP Marine Group continues to grow in size, most recently acquiring aluminum boat manufacturers: Alumacraft, Manitou and Telwater boats from Australia.
Moving forward, the marine group plans to focus on expanding and optimizing its dealer networks through 2019 and beyond.
“We’re not simply just Evinrude anymore,” Crocker said. “And we plan to work hard to show both dealers and consumers that.”