Mercury Marine's direct-injected OptiMax engine, winner of the 2006 J.D. Power award for customer satisfaction in two-stroke engines, received a global birthday present, worldwide calibration, to celebrate its 10th birthday.

OptiMax, introduced in 1996, was the world's first direct-injected two-stroke outboard. "Worldwide calibration" means OptiMax outboards, ranging from 75 to 225 hp, meet the environmental standards for most of the world.

"We have shown the world that OptiMax is an adaptable and versatile engine technology," said OptiMax platform manager Mark Klossner. "It has a fuel system capable of meeting EPA restrictions, and now it has achieved worldwide calibration."

OptiMax was a pioneer product when it was introduced as a two-stroke engine that possessed many favorable attributes of a four-stroke outboard, including impressive fuel economy and reduced emissions. It was widely accepted almost immediately, and has recently climbed to new heights of popularity.

"As four-stroke outboards entered the market there was a period of time when people thought the four-stroke was the only way to go," said Klossner. "Now, with OptiMax technology and the refinement we have put into it, the boating public has two great options of outboard engine technologies to choose from."

In February, J.D. Power and Associates recognized OptiMax as "Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Two-Stroke Outboard Engines."

Mercury this year has introduced the 250 Pro XS OptiMax and the 300 XS OptiMax. The addition of these engines provides consumers greater outboard variety and choice. OptiMax offers a wide range of horsepower models, digital throttle and shift (on select models) and SmartCraft technology on all models.

Although some within the industry considered direct-injected engines a bridge between inefficient traditional two-strokes and four-stroke engines, Klossner said OptiMax is going to be around for quite a while.

"The 10th birthday marks a highpoint for OptiMax," said Klossner. "It is as strong as ever and getting stronger. OptiMax is part of our product plan and our product lineup for many years in the future. As an outboard technology, it is a great choice for customers with outstanding performance, reliability and best-in-class fuel economy."

Last Updated ( Friday, 17 November 2006 )