For Immediate Release

Axius Now Available with SeaCore

Contact: Melissa Grey
Manager, Marketing Services
Cummins MerCruiser Diesel
Phone:  (843) 745-1586
E-mail:  melissa.m.grey@cummins.com

CMD Announces Axius Diesel Sterndrive Control System Available with Seacore

(Charleston, S.C.) – Axius is a new sterndrive control system with joystick docking that provides the first fully intuitive sterndrive docking system. Joystick control allows Axius-powered boats to move sideways, at an angle, or even in a circle – all with a simple touch of the joystick. By adding optional SeaCore, customers will be able to combine the hassle free docking of Axius, with the performance benefits of sterndrives – all without worrying about corrosion in saltwater.

Axius was developed by the MerCruiser division of Mercury Marine and is based on technology originally developed for the Zeus pod propulsion system by Cummins MerCruiser Diesel (a joint venture between Mercury Marine and Cummins Inc.). Axius will be available for diesel applications in the fourth quarter of 2008.

Axius uses twin, individually articulating MerCruiser® Bravo Three® diesel sterndrives with compact QSD diesel engines. Boaters will enjoy superb maneuverability and increased performance over inboards. Since Axius doesn’t require modifications for sterndrive hulls, it’s an easy upgrade to a MerCruiser SeaCore® Sterndrive with features including hardcoat anodizing and an increased use of stainless steel making it perfect for saltwater environments.

Seacore is a comprehensive corrosion protection system that improves upon Cummins MerCruiser’s already outstanding saltwater performance and backs it up with a 4-year limited sterndrive corrosion warranty. Seacore protects to the core by heavy-duty industrial anodizing treatment to all aluminum parts that are exposed to seawater that results in a surface that’s more abrasion-resistant than case-hardened steel and non-conductive to reduce electrolysis. The treatment applies to all aluminum drive & transom surfaces including interior water and exhaust passages.

Sterndrive Improvement over traditional inboards :
Acceleration: 0 to plane 25% – 35% faster;
Acceleration: 0 to 30 mph 5% – 15% faster;
Fuel Economy: Average at Cruise 30% – 40% better;
Fuel Economy: Wide-Open Throttle (WOT) 20% – 30% better;
Top Speed: 20% – 25% faster.

Based in Charleston, S.C. ( USA), Cummins MerCruiser Diesel is responsible for designing, manufacturing and providing reliable after-sales support worldwide for marine products. It offers a broad range of power, with available ratings from 115-715 HP for recreational applications and 76-715 HP for commercial use. Cummins MerCruiser Diesel is a joint venture between Cummins Inc. and Mercury Marine and can be found on the Internet at www.cmdmarine.com.

For further information, contact Melissa Grey Marketing Services Manager, at 843-745-1586 or melissa.m.grey@cummins.com. High resolution photography can be downloaded from our FTP site: http://www.cmdmarine.com/ftp.

High resolution photography can be downloaded from our FTP site:

http://www.cmdmarine.com/ftp.