High-horsepower outboards account for majority growth in 2018

Wholesale shipments of outboards over 200 horsepower were up more than 25 percent last year, while shipments below 200 horsepower grew only 1.6 percent.

By Trade Only Today Editors

January 24, 2019

The National Marine Manufacturers Association reported that U.S. outboard engine wholesale shipments were up 5.9 percent in 2018 compared to 2017. The NMMA Monthly Shipment Report (MSR) represents 95 percent of the market.

The data showed that outboards rated at 200 horsepower and above were up 20.8 percent last year. They accounted for a 25.6 percent share of wholesale shipments. Outboard engines under 200 horsepower grew by 1.6 percent in 2018.