Honda Introduces a New Generation of Intelligent General Purpose Engines

iGX Engine Represents an Industry First

ALPHARETTA, Ga., April 20 -- Honda announced today that it is introducing a revolutionary new generation of intelligent computer controlled iGX general purpose engines that will set a new standard for ease of use, value fuel efficiency, and quiet operation. Honda iGX engines will, for the first time in the power equipment industry, feature an integrated electronic control unit (ECU) that delivers complete drive-by-wire remote control capability and controls key aspects of engine operation.

Ideally suited for a wide range of commercial and residential power equipment applications, the iGX 440 15 horsepower overhead cam (OHC) engine features all-new architecture, but serves as an extension of Honda's legendary GX series commercial grade engines known for their unparalleled durability, quality and reliability. The Honda iGX 440 is a premium engine that represents the pinnacle of Honda's general purpose engine lineup, and will debut nationally through Honda engine distributors this summer.

"Our new iGX engines speak to Honda's spirit of innovation and continued technological leadership," said Honda Engines senior manager, Scott Conner. "They will set a new standard within the power equipment industry, and further differentiate Honda from its competitors."

Central to the iGX concept is an integrated ECU with STR(TM) Governor system that controls such functions as starting, throttle, ignition timing, and diagnostics. The ECU enables drive-by-wire remote control operation of the engine, and engine speed can be programmed and varied based on the equipment application's load and speed requirements.

  Potential new applications and attributes of this technology include:
   - pressure washers that automatically start or stop when the user
     squeezes or releases the trigger handle;
   - water pumps that can be automatically activated based on water level by
     a remote switch;
   - lawn mowers that can automatically vary engine speed based on load so
     the engine does not slow in thick grass;
   - generators that can automatically start when required and vary engine
     speed based on electrical draw.

Benefiting both consumers and the environment, iGX technology results in lower fuel consumption, lower emissions, and lower noise through reduced total engine running time and engine speed that can be lowered based on power demands. This intelligent technology works in conjunction with the new engine's V-type valve layout and sparkplug-center combustion chamber to yield a fuel economy increase of approximately 15 percent compared to a similar conventional engine. Emission levels are approximately 30 percent less than the stringent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Phase 2 and California Air Resources Board (CARB) Tier II standards, for environmental performance that is among the best in the world.

Additionally, the iGX is easier for inexperienced users to operate, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of the choke and throttle and making it ideal for rental applications. Other thoughtful iGX design features include:

   - full auto choke
   - auto shut-off fuel valve
   - digital ignition system
   - long life oil-immersed timing belt
   - silent muffler type
   - new long life air filter
   - low effort recoil starter with automatic decompression
   - automotive style starter motor
   - multifunction oil alert
   - wide fuel filler mouth with ratchet-type fuel filler cap

Honda is the world's preeminent engine maker, selling more than 19 million units globally in 2004 through a diverse array of automotive, motorcycle, and power equipment products. Honda engines are characterized by the same clean, quiet, fuel-efficient technology that is behind the company's reputation for quality. All Honda engines in North America meet or exceed California Air Resources Board (CARB) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emission standards.