Marine
Mercury launches two new engines in the fuel-efficient OptiMax family
FOND DU LAC, Wis. – This summer, Mercury Marine will add two new powerful siblings to its industry-leading OptiMax outboard family — the OptiMax 175 Pro XS and the 250 OptiMax.
The OptiMax fuel system matches — and even surpasses — the fuel efficiency of many of today's large four-strokes. Compared to traditional two-strokes, the OptiMax fuel system uses as much as 45 percent less fuel for the same running period.
Following in the successful footsteps of its direct injected 3.0L predecessors, the 225 and 250 Pro XS engines, the new 175 Pro XS promises to deliver all of the same thrills and delights to smaller boat owners, in a lightweight 2.5L package.
Weighing in at 431 pounds, the 175 Pro XS offers an outstanding power-to-weight ratio when compared to the competition. The OptiMax Pro XS engines have powered the last two Bassmaster Classic fishing tournaments.
The new Mercury 250 OptiMax promises to be a hit in the saltwater and aluminum boat markets. The 250 OptiMax features the incredible fuel economy and durability that have become synonymous with the OptiMax name.
The new 250 hp OptiMax features the exclusive, patented Verado gearcase with heavy-duty components for durability, corrosion resistance and performance. Dual water pickups provide a steady flow of cooling water, even in elevated running positions.
Both engines feature a high-output alternator and a 3-star C.A.R.B. rating — the highest emissions compliance level for outboards today. Carbon fiber reeds and a higher injection pressure give these engines low-end and mid-range power to push tournament-loaded rigs and heavy saltwater boats to new limits.
OptiMax, introduced in 1996, was the world's first direct-injected two-stroke outboard. The OptiMax injection system uses a charge of fuel and air to atomize fuel droplets directly into the combustion chamber. The fuel/air mixture is efficiently directed by Mercury's exclusive dome-shaped pistons to the spark plug, producing excellent running quality, fuel economy and low emissions.
J.D. Power & Associates recognized OptiMax for delivering the "Highest Customer Satisfaction with Two Stroke Outboard Engines Two Years in a Row, Tied in 2007."
Both engines will be manufactured at Mercury's headquarter facilities in Fond du Lac. They will be available to consumers in late summer 2007 from Mercury dealers.
Mercury Marine is the world's leading manufacturer of recreational marine propulsion engines. A $2.3 billion division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), Mercury and its 6,200 employees worldwide provide engines, boats, services and parts for recreational, commercial and government marine applications. Mercury's industry-leading brand portfolio includes Mercury and Mariner outboard engines; Mercury MerCruiser sterndrives and inboard engines; MotorGuide trolling motors; Mercury and Teignbridge propellers; MotoTron electronic controls; Mercury inflatable boats; Mercury SmartCraft electronics; and Mercury and Quicksilver parts and oils. In 2007, Mercury Marine's OptiMax engine was once again ranked "Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Two-Stroke Outboard Engines in a Tie" by J.D. Power and Associates, and Mercury MerCruiser engines were ranked "Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Sterndrive Engines" for the second year in a row. More information is available at www.mercurymarine.com.
CONTACT:
Erik Pope
Communications Coordinator
Mercury Marine
Phone: 920-929-5916
Email: erik.pope@mercmarine.com
