Honda unveils new engine design concept
At the 2025 World of Concrete trade show on Jan. 21, Honda introduced a new design concept to expand the company’s GX Series engines portfolio. The Honda iGX design concept incorporates two all-new engines, the iGX400 and the iGX430. The horizontal-shaft engines will be equipped with smart fuel injection (FI) technology and an integrated electronic self-tuning regulator (STR) governor that delivers drive-by-wire remote control capability to manage key aspects of engine operation.
Fuel injection technology improves operating efficiencies, eliminates the engine choke, reduces fuel-associated carburetor issues, and provides easier, smoother starting after extended storage. The Honda Self-Tuning Regulator (STR) governor minimizes engine RPM droop (typically seen with traditional mechanical governor systems) by electronically regulating the throttle opening. Honda says this allows the iGX engines to regulate available power when the load changes in demanding commercial environments using concrete and construction equipment.
“Honda iGX engines provide durable and flexible power, and reliable, easy operation for industry professionals who depend on the longevity of their equipment to get jobs done in high-demand, heavy-duty commercial, construction and rental applications,” said Mark Kohls, vice president of Honda Power Sports & Products, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “Our new design concept solidly positions Honda Engines to produce the iGX400 and iGX430, two all-new versatile power delivery options for commercial environments, providing ease of operation as well as enhanced productivity and serviceability for OEM manufacturers, contractors, equipment operators, and Honda dealers.”
Communication and Easy Diagnostics
As a result of Honda’s adoption of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) standard J1939 vehicle bus, the recommended practice used for communication and diagnostics among vehicle components, the new Honda iGX models will offer a standardized method for communication across ECUs. The iGX400 and iGX430 will feature a control panel with an LED indicator that informs the user about potential problems with diagnostic trouble codes. This indicator is designed either to stop the engine or alert the operator if any corrective actions need to be taken. These alerts protect and help extend the life of the engine and also make for easier maintenance.
Replaceability
The iGX engines will feature high power output and torque in a compact design, comparable to the compact base frame footprints of other high-output Honda engines. The design compatibility minimizes changing time, making it easy for the user to install the new models when older engines reach the end of their service lives. The design also allows manufacturers maximum flexibility with current tooling and frames.