Mercury has launched the Mercury Racing 540, a high-performance engine that adds power to the Racing series’ base engine, the 520. These two new engines, which probably mark the end of the 525 EFI, are less expensive and thus make it possible for manufacturers to sell their high-performance models at a lower price—an advantage that could very well help rescue this segment in the wake of the financial crisis. Outerlimits has pulled the veil off its first 36 SL model equipped with a pair of 520 engines.
The only real advance in fuel economy in recent years is the Enertia ECO propeller. According to Mercury, this propeller directly leads to a 10 to 12% saving in fuel. The propeller is larger in diameter and features larger blades, which – at cruising speed – helps raise the front of the boat, thereby reducing drag and improving fuel consumption. The surprise? No detriment to performance! The propeller features a progressive rake and is suitable for outboard motors or Alpha and Bravo 1 sterndrives.