Do Evinrude's outboards meet the new Australian emissions standards?

With the future of the planet looking more like a watermelon in the microwave each and every day, the Australian government has decided it's time to act. They're introducing emissions standards for non-road spark ignition engines and equipment, which means, among other things, marine engines.

What does this mean for those looking to purchase a new Evinrude outboard in the near future? 

What are the standards?

The standards outline the limits for hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide emissions, running through a formula that takes into account the power output of the engine in question. Based on the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and equivalent international standards, the new standards apply to things like chainsaws, lawn mowers and generators, as well as marine engines.

A two-stroke leaf blower used for an hour can spit out as many hydrocarbons as 150 cars over the same time, according to the Australian Department of the Environment and Energy. As such, it wouldn't make much sense applying strict emissions standards to cars and letting all these other polluting engines off scot-free.

When will the new standards apply?

From July 1, 2018 onwards, products imported into Australia will have to meet or exceed the standards. From July 1, 2019 onwards, the same applies to domestically produced products.

You don't have to worry about any marine engines (or other products that come under the bill for that matter) that you already own - the standards only apply to the sale of new hardware, so anything in your shed or yard that you wish to keep or sell will not be subject to the standards.

How do Evinrude's engines fare?

All of Evinrude's engines not only meet the proposed emissions standards, but exceed them. Because Evinrude's ETEC engines work on direct fuel-injection technology, the exact amount of fuel needed is shot straight into the combustion chamber, making them incredibly efficient. This reduces emissions more than any other marine-engine technology.

Given their technological edge, it's no wonder Evinrude ETEC has garnered three stars from the California Air Resources Board, as well as awards from the EPA.

If you're in the market for a new outboard engine, get in touch with a member of the Hunts Marine team today.