Evinrude’s owner to focus on ‘next-gen’ propulsion technology
Dumping outboard engine technology doesn’t mean BRP is giving up on powering watercraftEvinrude’s owner, BRP, has hinted it is working on next-generation ways of moving boats through water as it exits traditional outboard engine manufacturing.
A single line in a statement issued to investors in the wake of today’s announcement that the 113-year-old Evinrude brand would stop making E-TEC and E-TEC G2 outboard engines has hinted at the company’s future direction.
“We will leverage our track record of ingenuity through our R&D resources to enhance the boating experience with unique new marine products, such as the next generation of engine technology with Project Ghost and the next generation of pontoons with Project M, code names for new products we expect to transform the industry,” it said.
Project Ghost could link to BRP’s efforts to produce fully electric versions of a number of its motorised leisure products, including its Sea-Doo jet ski range.
Late last year BRP teased a prototype battery-powered Sea-Doo concept at the same time as it announced its new-for-2020 jet ski range using the traditional Rotax engine range.
“These concepts give a glimpse of what the future could hold, among others, for both of its current product lines and for other potential segments,” BRP said at the time.
“As a leader in the powersports industry, BRP continues to push the limits of the industry by unlocking new ways to move people and to explore new territories, while still providing the fun and exhilarating experience that riders expect.”
BRP said the concept electric jet ski was helping it by “evaluating market viability’’.
The decision to wind down Evinrude does not affect Sea-Doo.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
