Honda, the world's largest engine manufacturer, has adopted a new engine rating system that will provide consumers with genuine output figures, allowing them to more easily select Honda power products to best suit their needs.

Honda will now quote all engine figures at Net horsepower (hp) and kilowatts (kW), as per the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J1349 procedure, rather than using the SAE J1995 standard which quotes maximum hp or kW.

The Net power figure better represents actual performance, differing from the previous SAE J1995 standard of rating horsepower, which is measured without either an air-cleaner or muffler fitted to the engine. This results in an inflated output figure that can not be replicated in 'real world' conditions with all ancillary engine components fitted.

Stated power output ratings for Honda engines and power equipment have subsequently decreased marginally, however, the engines themselves remain unchanged.  Customers can therefore expect identical performance, and the quality and durability that they've come to expect from Honda.

Honda has also taken the opportunity to change the way of indicating torque values, which will also be measured at Net, along with fuel consumption (changes from g/kW.hr to L/hr) and fuel tank capacity.      

According to Honda Power Equipment OEM Manager, Ray Briffa, there is a risk when buying products that quote maximum power, because they may not function satisfactorily or to customer expectations.

"Consumers who may require a new 5.5 hp engine to drive a water pump or pressure cleaner for instance, could be bitterly disappointed to find that the engine they've bought is really only good for 4.8 or 4.9 hp," he said.

"This may lead to compromised performance, with the worst case scenario being that the engine may simply not be suitable, and by this stage it is used and more difficult to return."

Mr Briffa urged consumers to take care when purchasing and to quiz their power equipment dealer closely regarding engine performance.

"To avoid disappointment, buyers need to ensure they are getting what they pay for," he said, "and if they are comparing a Honda product to another brand, they need to compare Net output with Net output for a true comparison."

Honda's adoption of the Net hp ratings is part of a worldwide Honda initiative that brings all Honda product categories; automobiles, motorcycles, marine, power equipment and stationary engines, into line.       

Honda has already begun the transition of all relevant documentation such as catalogues, website and owners' manuals to reflect the new output ratings.  Product decals will also be modified.

Customers will learn about the changes through a press campaign, featuring a distinctive rocking horse. The campaign directs customers to Honda's website, www.hondampe.com.au, and a toll-free information line, 1800-801-804.

Mr Briffa said that he expected manufacturers who are still making unrepresentative power claims to eventually follow Honda's lead and also adopt the Net output SAE J1349 procedure.

"Honda is raising awareness in the Australian market with this initiative," he said.

"After careful consideration, we've come to the conclusion that Net output ratings are the truest way to measure engine performance and provide consumers with the most genuine output figures.

"I expect other manufacturers who are still making unrepresentative claims will agree with our rationale and gradually follow suite."