Honda lifts the cowl of its new BF250 outboard

Honda has revealed details of its all-new BF250 outboard engine, which is scheduled to be available in Australia from early 2012.

Entering the next power range, the BF250 combines a new 3.6-litre V6 EFI engine with the world’s first direct air induction system in an outboard -- designed to reduce intake air temperature and increase air volume to the engine -- to deliver outstanding performance and a claimed best-in-class fuel economy.

Beneath its distinct, angular and streamlined cowl, the BF250 incorporates exclusive Honda technologies including BLAST -- advanced ignition timing control system that is claimed to improve hole-shot performance; ECOmo -- sophisticated lean-burn fuel control system, which contributes to the engine’s fuel economy; and VTEC -- variable valve timing technology originally developed for Formula One race cars to deliver increased power.

The BF250 also features a new high-performance gear case, which enhances hydrodynamic efficiency. Combined with a new gear reduction ratio (2:1), the engine delivers even greater all-round performance, beyond just an increase in horsepower.

A new battery charging system also allows the BF250 to handle increasing consumer demand for additional onboard electrical power. At idle, a new Adjustable Idle Charge system automatically adjusts engine speed to raise the charging rate when an increased electrical load is detected. Under these conditions, the high-output 90-amp alternator still puts out 40 amps (60amps during normal running conditions).

Honda’s new BF250 is also NMEA2000 compliant, allowing engine-to-electronics data communication to deliver engine management and performance data to compatible marine electronics displays.

Along with the characteristics for which Honda is renowned, the new BF250 will also be backed by a five-year warranty.