Rotax Jet Propulsion Engines pack more power than ever
by Wendy Wilson 6 Aug 2018 18:35 NZST
Rotax announces new Jet Propulsion Engine © Wendy Wilson
BRP Marine Group announced today the release of the largest Rotax jet propulsion engine yet – the Rotax ACE (Advanced Combustion Efficiency) 300. Now available on Scarab jet boat models and Chaparral Vortex models, the Rotax ACE 300 is the most powerful engine in the recreational small jetboat space. In addition, the new engine includes features like a maintenance-free supercharger, closed loop cooling, lateral thrust control, reduced intake noise, improved sound quality and the award-winning intelligent Neutral and Reverse (iNR) functionality to name a few.
"We are so excited to be launching the most powerful engine that the market has seen," said Michael Carter, director of North American business development for jet propulsion systems. "Packed with functionality unique to Rotax systems and unparalleled power, the new Rotax ACE 300 is going to be a show-stopper. We are looking forward to seeing the capabilities of the engine when matched with the style and performance of the Scarab and Chaparral Vortex platforms."
The Rotax ACE 300 is 9% bigger than the Rotax's next largest engine and creates 15% more power. Designed with a longer stroke compared to the Rotax 4-TEC 250, the Rotax ACE 300 has a displacement of 1.6 liters and increased efficiency in two key areas: friction reduction and better cooling. A new protective plasma coating on engine cylinder liners creates a metallic layer that provides a hard and durable surface to withstand piston friction forces, improves surface durability and produces better heat transfer and superior performance. A reengineered cooling system includes an additional heat exchanger and larger, more efficient engine oil cooler.
A new, re-designed supercharger with a faster spinning 32-blade wheel (double the blades of the previous version) produces 30% more intake boost and requires no maintenance. A new larger intercooler provides a more dense air charge, aids in increased airflow and features a new air fin design for improved heat transfer. New ignition curves have been developed to efficiently match the increased air boost with the output of the larger fuel injectors, leading to the 15% increase in horsepower.
The iNR system delivers smooth, predictable deceleration when shifting to reverse while underway. Whether cruising, pulling, fishing or docking, the iNR system gives boaters the confidence of being in full control so they can enjoy their time on the water.