Optimizing Mercury combustion engines
To limit its environmental impact, Mercury Marine is working on its products on several levels. An essential element of its sustainable development strategy, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from its outboard and stern-drive engines requires numerous innovations on many details.
The latest iconic addition to the Mercury lineup, the 600-horsepower V12 Verado features a two-speed transmission and propeller design that has drastically reduced fuel consumption for the same power output, thereby limiting emissions. A 43-foot boat equipped with two 600-horsepower outboard engines consumes 20 percent less fuel than its sistership with three 425-horsepower engines during acceleration and at top speed. The engine has been awarded 3 stars "Ultra Low Emissions" by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), one of the most stringent regulatory agencies.
Optimization also includes work on vibrations and noise pollution, which is extremely advanced, thanks to high-level testing facilities. The work on recycled aluminum used for the engine blocks limits the use of virgin ore and makes it possible to save on the weight of the engine, and in cascade on the consumption of the boat.
Consumption and alternative fuels
Working on engine fuel efficiency is also a matter of engine software and peripherals. The Advanced Range Optimization function automates fuel metering for maximum efficiency, avoiding waste of fossil fuels. The Active Trim system automatically manages the boat's trim to limit fuel consumption, especially when lifting off.
Mercury is also working on alternative fuels. The 5 hp propane-powered outboard produces 9% less CO2 and 30% less HC+NOx than its gasoline counterpart.
Avator, the outboard engine of the electric transition
The new Avator range of electric outboard motors, an emblematic element of Mercury Marine's product strategy, reflects the company's ambitions for zero-emission boating. These transportable motors should speed up access to electric boating for boaters with an optimized product that benefits from Mercury's know-how.
To continue its cutting edge development, Mercury Marine through its Mercury Racing division has partnered with the E1 Series project. By supplying the engines for this new electric motorboat racing circuit, it is highlighting its commitment to sustainable development at the heart of product design.
