Tomorrow's technology today thanks to Yamaha's new HPDI outboards
The "buzz" in boating these days are the new low-emission outboard motors and many will be seen for
the first time at winter sports and boat shows.
Fueled by an EPA directive to reduce hydrocarbons by 2006, outboard makers have assigned their best engineers
to develop new engine technology to meet these requirements. Technologies selected include four-stroke outboards
or direct injection two-stroke outboards. One new technology holding great promise is High Pressure Direct Injection
(HPDI). Developed by Yamaha Outboards, the company created an all-new V6 engine to maximize its effectiveness while
meeting the EPA's requirements six years early.
HPDI is so revolutionary it was awarded the top three innovation and design awards from the marine industry
and two leading magazines, Popular Mechanics and Motor Boating & Sailing. Yamaha's marine engineering has been
honored by these groups before, but the recognition of the HPDI is the first time any company has received all
three for the same product. This honor is equivalent to horse racing's Triple Crown or the Chicago Bulls' amazing
"Three-peat" string of NBA championships.
HPDI is featured on seven all-new motors in 150 and 200 horsepower ratings, including counter-rotating versions
for dual installations.
"Our advanced HPDI technology is meant as a commitment of things to come from Yamaha," said Yamaha
President Phil Dyskow. "Our use of four-stroke technology and now HPDI technology will power Yamaha into the
new century in compliance with EPA regulations."
There are significant advantages in how Yamaha's HPDI works compared to conventional direct injection systems.
With the Yamaha system, the fuel pressure at injection is much higher - 700 psi - to create greater atomization.
Conventional direct injection systems vary from 90 to 250 psi. Yamaha injects its fuel at 700 psi, for a consistent,
improved fuel atomization. Results delivered include greater fuel economy, smoother operation and increased reliability
Engineering tests on the new HPDI system have shown it to be more fuel efficient than conventional direct injection
engines, enabling boaters to run 20 percent farther than the competition, while doing it quieter - measuring two
to five decibels quieter than the competition - and faster in acceleration to plane.
For more information on Yamaha's product line, visit the Yamaha Web site at http://www.yamaha-motor.com/.
For the location of the nearest Yamaha Outboard dealer, call (800) 88-YAMAHA.
