Honda launches outboard engines in Kerala

With 26 models ranging from 2 to 225 horsepower, Honda Marine aims to launch a 250-HP engine by the end of this year. Presently, five models have been introduced with a price ranging from Rs 1.85 lakh to Rs 8 lakh.

The President and CEO of HSPP India, Takashi Hamasaki, said that the current outboard (OB) engine market size in Kerala was about 1,400 units, the majority of which was for fishing application. "Transport and leisure usage are increasing at a high rate. The state is already a leading market for Honda products and the company is targeting a growth of 20 per cent," he said.

The four-stroke engine technology sets a new benchmark for fuel-efficient quiet operation and low emissions. There is a size available for every application -- fishing, tourism, leisure, transportation or coastal defence.

Honda would be targeting the fishing community, fisheries department, Coast Guard, Navy, Customs and Marine police with these engines.