Lehr Introduces 25hp Liquid Draw Propane-powered Outboard
LEHR, LLC has unveiled its new 25 hp Propane Outboard to the worldwide press and the boating public at the 2015 Miami International Boat Show, bringing clean, efficient outboard power to a new range of boats including pontoon boats, fiberglass and inflatable yacht tenders, RIBs, aluminum fishing boats, small center console skiffs and other vessels.
This 2-cylinder, 498cc SOHC 4-Stroke outboard is LEHR’s most powerful engine to date and the largest factory propane outboard available. Its launch introduces a new class of boats — and boaters — to the many advantages of propane power. These advantages include easy electric or pull starting (with no troublesome choking or priming), maximum acceleration/performance with 110-octane fuel and superior efficiency that delivers more miles (and boating fun) between fuel stops. Along with all this, boaters get the satisfaction of fueling their on-water excitement with an engine that produces zero evaporative emissions and no marine pollutants.
“We’re very excited about our new 25 hp model, and what its introduction will mean to the boating industry worldwide,” said Capt. Bernardo Herzer, CEO and founder of LEHR. “As we continue to expand our line, more boaters will experience the benefits of propane power and will realize that great performance and doing great things for the environment can go hand in hand,” added Herzer.
According to Herzer, an innovative Liquid Draw fueling system is key to the LEHR 25’s performance. Specialized liquid draw tanks work in concert with an innovative heated evaporation system that rapidly changes the state of the fuel from liquid to gas. This unique fuel delivery system, which includes rugged stainless steel fuel lines, prevents the fuel from freezing and ensures a steady, precise supply of vaporized propane to fuel this powerful engine.
Under its sleek cowl, the LEHR 25 is packed with innovative features, including an optional internal, fully sealed Lithium Iron battery available on Electric Start models. LEHR is the only outboard manufacturer to offer this breakthrough, providing fast, reliable starting while eliminating the need for heavy, potentially hazardous lead-acid batteries. In addition, having this lightweight (>2 pounds) battery integrated into the engine simplifies rigging and saves valuable deck space, whether it’s an inflatable tender, tiller-steered fishing boat or fleet of rental pontoon boats.
LEHR’s optional Lithium Iron battery offers several important performance and reliability advantages over traditional batteries, as well. This battery can hold an unloaded charge for an entire year without compromising service life, its overall lifespan is up to twice that of lead-acid batteries, and the extremely low discharge rate make it ideal for seasonal use. Continuously recharged by the LEHR 25’s 6-amp/80 watt alternator, this battery ensures instant starts in all types of conditions. This innovation is also offered on the company’s portable 9.9 and 15 hp outboards.
