this is from Soundings magazine for the marine industry


Issue Date: 1/23/2008, Posted On: 1/23/2008

Test confirms fuel efficiency strides
Marine outboard engines today are 38 percent more fuel efficient than 20 years ago, according to a Seattle test that pitted a 2008 Evinrude E-TEC engine against a 1988 Evinrude model.

Organizers of the Seattle Boat Show conducted a fuel efficiency demonstration Friday. Two identical boats (C-Dory 22’ Cruisers) departed Elliott Bay Marina in Seattle with the goal of circumnavigating Bainbridge Island, Wash., a distance of 33 miles.

Each boat was outfitted with a 115-hp outboard provided by Evinrude, the same amount of fuel (7.9 gallons), and left the dock weighing the same. One engine was built in the 1988 model year, the other was a 2008 model. Representatives from the University of Washington’s College of Ocean and Fishery Sciences observed and certified the results.

Here’s what they found:

The 2008 Evinrude E-TEC was 38 percent more fuel efficient than its 1988 counterpart.

The boat with the 1988 engine traveled 24 miles before running out of fuel, while the C-Dory with the 2008 model completed the circumnavigation.

At Friday’s fuel prices of $3.79 per gallon, the savings equated to $11 an hour.

The 1988 Evinrude started in a cloud of smoke, which continued for several minutes, and the fumes enveloped the dock, causing people to move away.

The 2008 E-TEC was whisper-quiet on start-up and without smoke or fumes of any kind. Based on a reading of the decibel levels of each engine at start-up, the 1988 was perceived to be twice as loud as the 2008.

“Most boaters and former boaters don’t have any idea the industry has gained this much ground toward a cleaner more efficient boating future,â€? said Michael Campbell, president of the Northwest Marine Trades Association, in a statement. “Today’s efficient engines mean it’s actually possible to go further, spend less on fuel and have a more enjoyable, quieter boating experience.â€?

The fuel efficiency demonstration was made possible with the help of C-Dory and engine manufacturer BRP.

Both boats and their respective motors will be on display at the Seattle Boat Show. The show runs Jan. 24 through Feb. 2 at Qwest Field Event Center and South Lake Union