New Yanmar 4LV common-rail engines

Yanmar introduced a new series of 150-250hp 4LV common-rail (CR) diesel engines to the European market during the 2017 Cannes Yachting Festival from September 12-17.

The new 4LV series spans five engines models with outputs from 150 to 250mhp that harness the latest electronically managed CR fuel injection technology. Yanmar will be introducing the 150, 170, and 195mhp units first from the five variants ultimately for sale. At this stage, there's no word on local availability, but we assume they will arrive soon enough.

The engines have been specifically designed for the rigors of both sailing yachts over 60ft and recreational powerboats such as superyacht tenders and small commercial craft applications.  

Yanmar says the new 4LV range is clean, interconnective, quiet, powerful and fuel efficient. By exceeding the strict EPA Tier 3 and EU RCD Tier 2 emission regulations, the engines feature virtually smoke and odour-free operation, it adds.

For direct connectivity, the 4LV range has been developed alongside Yanmar’s electronic control and monitoring systems and connects seamlessly with NMEA or J1939 networking. This ensures support of advancing marine technologies and allows future-proofed integration to any multifunction bridge display.  

The engines incorporate the latest technology to enable very low vibration and noise levels for a smooth and quiet running experience. These include a chain rather than belt drive, a counterbalance shaft, and refined component design.  

Featuring a class-leading power-to-weight ratio, the 4LV delivers a powerful low-end torque performance due to the 2.8 L displacement. The result is said to be stunning acceleration, according to Yanmar, which will set these engines apart from others in their power range.  

A digital control system constantly monitors the engine to maximise performance and minimize fuel consumption, ensuring these are among the most fuel-efficient engines on the market.  

The versatile 4LV is an ideal power plant for sailboats, powerboats, or light commercial vessels. The range will be complemented by a choice of Yanmar controls, which include the VC10 electronic control panel, bringing real time diagnostics, and the JC20 joystick system, providing innovative manoeuvring solutions.  

The 150, 170, and 195mhp 4LV engines will be available as inboard models from the European autumn of 2017 and could be seen for the first time in Europe at the Cannes Festival of Yachting in September. The 230 & 250mhp inboard models and sterndrive models will make their introductions in 2018.  

It’s early days for our market and the Yanmar importer, Power Equipment, is in preliminary discussions about production of the new engines. But a betting man would assume the five new 4LV models will be available in Australia before too long.

More on Yanmar at Power Equipment.