Honda’s ‘green dream’ a reality

by Ben Sandman on 12 Aug 2007 Honda’s BF75/90 four-stroke engines have been officially recognised as having the lowest carbon monoxide rating of any outboard engine sold in Australia.

Audited USA EPA emissions data reveal Honda’s high-performance mid-range engines produce just 61g of carbon monoxide (CO) per kw/hr – the lowest of any engine tested.

Honda Marine manager Tim Davies said this recognition was further testament to Honda’s 'green dream' – a commitment to produce the world’s most environmentally-friendly engines which dated back nearly 50 years.

'At a reading of 61, the performance of Honda’s BF75/90 is very, very impressive,' Mr Davies said.

'To put this into perspective, some other three-star-rated low-emission engines have a CO rating of over 460!

'Two-stroke engines have traditionally attained lower CO levels than four-stroke engines… the fact our four-strokes scored even lower than direct injection two-strokes conclusively proves Honda’s advanced technology is without equal.'

Every outboard engine in Honda’s range achieves the Outboard Engine Distributors Association (OEDA) three-star ultra-low emission rating for superior environmental performance. Honda is the only company with 100 per cent range compliance to this rating.

While CO is an environmental concern, there also exists the potential for it to become a health and safety issue in regard to its presence in enclosed spaces.

Mr Davies said regardless of the fact how low the CO levels of any engine were, there was no substitute for common sense and good cabin ventilation – as was the case with a car. 'Adhering to strict emissions regulations, some engine manufacturers build their engines purely to the star-rating standard and forget about customer safety… not Honda,' he said.

'In its pursuit of perfection, Honda always puts its customers first.'

Further information: Honda – (03) 9270 1111 or visit: www.honda.com.au