法人別リリース

Yamaha Motor to Exhibit at CES 2019, World's Largest Consumer Electronics Show

Yamaha Motor — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 14:00:00 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Nov. 9, 2018 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.
Yamaha Motor to Exhibit at CES 2019, World's Largest Consumer Electronics Show
- Exhibiting Five Models, Including “PPM” Low-Speed Autonomous Mobility Service System with Onboard AI Conductor -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced on November 9 that it will exhibit five models at CES 2019, the world's largest consumer electronics show, to be held in Las Vegas, U.S.A., over four days from January 8 to 11, 2019.

The Yamaha booth will feature a total of five models, including 1) the Public Personal Mobility (PPM) service system based on low-speed autonomous driving, which has many potential applications such as in transport infrastructure and business utilization, 2) the next-generation concept model of industrial-use unmanned helicopters, which have higher payload to provide unprecedented air solutions, 3) the “TRITOWN” concept model, which offers completely new electric personal mobility through its two-front-wheel LMW mechanism, 4) the “NIKEN” large sports bike launched in 2018, which also utilizes the LMW mechanism, and 5) an installation of artificial intelligence technology developed by Yamaha Corporation, with which Yamaha Motor shares the Yamaha brand. In addition, Yamaha Motor will conduct demonstrations of the PPM featuring an “AI conductor” on the dedicated paths adjacent to the venue during the period of the show.

This exhibition aims to discover new partners from any field of endeavor, creating technological innovation and new businesses through open innovation.

Image: CES Yamaha Motor Booth Illustration
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/201811060026-O1-X7p3L3n6

Yamaha Motor Booth overview
Period: Tuesday, January 8, to Friday, January 11, 2019
Venue: Sands Expo and Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.A
Yamaha Motor Booth: South Hall 2 / Booth size: 225 square meters

Models to be exhibited
-Public Personal Mobility (PPM) (concept model)
Mobility service system with a wide range of potential applications based on low-speed autonomous driving and passenger-cargo shared usage
PPM is a form of comfortable and convenient on-demand compact low-speed mobility for “one-mile” short-distance travel. Its simple construction enables customization for a variety of applications, such as transportation of passengers and/or cargo, or further conversion into a mobile sales kiosk. In anticipation of further future autonomous travel, provisions for a variety of user-friendly mobility service applications will be showcased such as AI-based facial recognition registration and communication between the vehicle (robot) and the passenger (human).

Photo 1: Public Personal Mobility (PPM)
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/201811060026-O2-4Wiyr2ij

PPM demonstration
During CES2019, Yamaha Motor will conduct demonstrations of the PPM featuring an “AI conductor” on the dedicated paths adjacent to the South Hall which houses the Yamaha Motor booth. After facial recognition registration on devices provided at the Yamaha booth or the boarding point, the passenger can control the specific AI conductor on a demonstration vehicle. In addition, the AI conductor controls the start and stop of the vehicle through the passenger’s gestures. Visitors can experience the future of personal travel made possible by the Yamaha autonomous system.

-Next-generation Industrial-use unmanned helicopters
Delivering an impressive 70kg payload and long range capable of providing new solutions in aerial delivery and surveillance (concept model)
Building on Yamaha Motor's 35 years of experience in industrial-use unmanned helicopters, this concept model features a series of innovations enabling the payload of 70kg, double that of the latest model. Flight control will also be updated to feature latest technology such as collision avoidance, stable flight in atmospheric turbulence, and terrain following flights in mountainous areas. In addition, utilizing its autonomous flight capabilities, this model can provide unprecedented air solutions for a range of applications such as aerial delivery, measurement, inspection, aerial photography, and surveillance through attachment of application-specific equipment.

Photo 2: FAZER R G2:
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/201811060026-O5-jy1uz7iC
(The image shown here is the latest FAZER R G2, an automated navigation unmanned helicopter.)

-Unveiling of new TRITOWN design (concept model)
Electric personal mobility for enjoyable and comfortable last-mile travel
Compact electric stand-up riding mobility with LMW (two-front-wheel mechanism). The simple structure in which the rider’s posture controls the balance of the vehicle means that it can be brought to a stop while still in a riding position. The lightweight and compact body makes for easy operation, creating a short-distance mobility tool accessible to a diverse range of people, and making last-mile travel enjoyable and exciting. The TRITOWN concept exhibit was the talk of the Tokyo Motor Show 2017, and the new design will be exhibited for the first time at CES2019.

Photo 3: Unveiling of New TRITOWN Design
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/201811060026-O3-U145BcJA
(The image shown here is of the Tokyo Motor Show 2017 concept model.)

-New leaning multi-wheel NIKEN launched in 2018
Motorcycle that delivers both relaxation and excitement via two front wheels (production vehicle)
New model LMW with an 845-cubic-meter liquid-cooled in-line three-cylinder engine. The NIKEN is a next-generation LMW that provides advanced LMW technology with a combination of unwavering cornering capability supported by a sense of stability, and a high-quality cruise performance that maintains rider comfort even over long distances. By adopting a new and exclusively developed steering mechanism, not only is the sense of stability unique to LMW, but also sporty and smooth cornering as well as a natural steering feel are provided. In addition to the sense of stability, with the introduction of a range of other control technologies, NIKEN owners are treated to a relaxed ride even during long distance touring. This new model enables riders to enjoy both a trip to the destination and also after arriving at the destination.

Photo 4: New Leaning Multi Wheel NIKEN launched in 2018
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/201811060026-O4-tZAWp6Ge

-Installation of artificial intelligence technology
Exhibition by Yamaha Corporation, with which Yamaha Motor shares the Yamaha brand (concept model)
This installation showcases artificial intelligence technology developed by Yamaha Corporation. The system analyzes and corrects the music performance in real time, aiding the performer to create a natural performance close to the musical score.

Official website: https://global.yamaha-motor.com/
Yamaha Media Center: http://www.mynewsdesk.com/yamaha-motor

Yamaha Motor’s Exhibit at CES 2018 to Cover Both Land and Air

Yamaha Motor — Mon, 04 Dec 2017 14:00:00 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Dec. 04, 2017 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.
Yamaha Motor’s Exhibit at CES 2018 to Cover Both Land and Air
- Autonomous 2- and 4-wheelers, Robotic Rider, Drone and Unmanned Helicopter -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo:7272) announced on December 4 that it will exhibit a wide-ranging lineup of five models at the CES 2018 tradeshow in Las Vegas, U.S.A., including autonomous-drive 2- and 4-wheelers, a motorcycle-riding robot, and a drone and an unmanned helicopter, both for industrial use. CES 2018, the world's largest consumer electronics tradeshow, will take place from January 9 to 12, 2018. This will be Yamaha Motor's first appearance in the show.

(Image: Rendering of Yamaha Motor Booth at CES 2018
http://prw.kyodonews.jp/img/201711308516-O1-tP8aK3MA)

(Photo: http://prw.kyodonews.jp/opn/release/201711308516/?images)

The MOTOROiD motorcycle incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) to assess its rider’s biometrics, movements, etc. and then drive the person autonomously (at low speed), which attracted much attention at the recent Tokyo Motor Show. The MOTOBOT Ver.2 is a robot that can actually drive a basically stock motorcycle autonomously using the very latest motorcycle and robotics technologies. The Public Personal Mobility is a multi-passenger four-wheel last-mile “mobility system” designed for autonomous-driving services. Rounding out the lineup are the YMR-01 prototype industrial drone and the new FAZER R industrial unmanned helicopter, both equipped with advanced technologies for enhanced operational efficiency and accuracy.

The Yamaha Motor booth, under its theme ”Expanding the possibilities of mobility with advanced technology,” will showcase the exciting results of Yamaha Motor’s research and development through demonstrations of control, autonomous-driving and AI technologies. In addition, Yamaha Motor hopes to meet new partners during the tradeshow and explore opportunities for collaboration in technological innovation and new business development.

Yamaha Motor Participation in CES 2018
- Period: Tuesday, January 9, to Friday, January 12, 2018
- Venue: Sands Expo and Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.A
- Booth: South Hall 2 (size: 225 sq. m)

Yamaha Motor’s Exhibit Lineup at CES 2018
MOTOROiD
- Motorcycle using AI to sense rider characteristics for autonomous driving -
Offering an all-new Kando* experience, this proof-of-concept model employs artificial intelligence in a new form of personal mobility that functions harmoniously with the rider. MOTOROiD senses its rider’s biometrics, movements, etc. to interact with the person like another living creature as it transports the rider autonomously at low speed. By undertaking challenges such as MOTOROiD, Yamaha is developing advanced technologies that will translate someday into all-new value for customers.
*Deep satisfaction and intense excitement experienced when encountering exceptional value

MOTOBOT Ver.2
- Autonomous motorcycle-riding robot -
This autonomous motorcycle-riding robot combines the latest in motorcycle and robotics technologies based on unprecedented research and development. Operating like a rider without any fundamental modification to the motorcycle, MOTOBOT can ride around a racetrack at high speed. The next goal is to safely exceed 200 kilometers per hour and then challenge MotoGP star Valentino Rossi to a battle of lap times. The underlying technologies and knowledge gained with MOTOBOT are expected to yield new value in Yamaha Motor’s existing businesses and pioneering new businesses as well.

06GEN Automated Public Personal Mobility
- Last-mile multi-person autonomous mobility system -
Envisaged for use in an environment shared with pedestrians covering a few kilometers, the 06GEN is a new-generation last-mile mobility system that provides safe, comfortable and convenient on-demand low-speed mobility autonomously. Designed to invigorate personal mobility in towns, resorts, etc., the 06GEN uses road image-recognition technology integrated with a cloud-based server. Low-cost and highly scalable, it is expected to be incorporated in Mobility as a Service (MaaS) initiatives using web application programming interfaces (APIs).

YMR-01
- Industrial drone with coaxial rotors for efficient spraying -
Combining coaxial rotor technology with the latest weight-reduction technology, the YMR-01 offers high spraying performance, ease of use and reliability to meet the demanding requirements of today's farmers. Two of its six rotor axes (on the left and right) use vertical coaxial rotors for a total of eight rotors to create ideal downward air currents regardless of travel direction. Spraying nozzles placed near these coaxial axes achieve consistent agrochemical application down to crop roots.

FAZER R
- Industrial unmanned helicopter for highly precise spraying -
In addition to offering all the features of existing unmanned helicopters, the FAZER R high-end industrial-use unmanned helicopter boasts “Turn Assistance.” The new technology realizes improved controllability and spraying performance by turning to maintain fixed spacing for spraying, holding evenly spaced flying paths, and maintaining flying speed. Operated simply by turning the spraying switch on or off, this new function achieves improved spraying accuracy without relying on the operator’s flying skill.

Yamaha Motorsports Activities for 2017 Season

Yamaha Motor — Fri, 03 Mar 2017 16:00:25 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Mar. 3, 2017 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.
Yamaha Motorsports Activities for 2017 Season
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) is proud to present the continuation of the Yamaha Racing strategy for the 2017 on- and off-road racing season. Yamaha restructured its mid- to long-term global strategy in 2015 - the year marking the company's 60th anniversary - and has engaged in a variety of corporate initiatives under its basic policies for racing activities: increasing the value of the Yamaha brand, acquiring advanced technologies and promoting motorcycle racing.

(Photo: http://prw.kyodonews.jp/prwfile/release/M102500/201703029492/_prw_PI1fl_7n6l2U7g.jpg)

With these plans in place for 2016, Yamaha excelled in top categories of racing. Yamaha took the Team Title and second and third place in the final rider rankings of the MotoGP World Championship, claimed a second consecutive victory in the prestigious Suzuka 8 Hours round of the Endurance World Championship and secured other racing accolades, thus refining its technologies and growing the value of the brand.

Moreover, Yamaha has continued to globally expand its strategic program, begun two years ago, to discover and develop young talent. The Yamaha Racing Team was established last year to compete in the SuperSports 600 class of the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC). Additionally, working together with Valentino Rossi's VR46 Riders Academy, the Yamaha VR46 Master Camp was launched, providing great opportunities for standout young ARRC riders to further polish their skills at "the home of motorcycle racing".

Under the same basic policies, Yamaha will carry out its racing activities globally in 2017, aiming to take numerous victories and to express the "Revs your Heart" brand slogan.

Yamaha Motor Racing Information: https://global.yamaha-motor.com/race/

Road Racing
In the MotoGP World Championship the Yamaha's Factory Racing Team -- that took the Team Title last season -- will field Valentino Rossi, who finished second in the overall standings for the past three seasons. He will again make an attempt to secure his 10th World Championship Title this season. He will be joined in the Movistar Yamaha MotoGP pit box by Maverick Vinales, who newly joins the team after taking a solid fourth in the standings in just his second season in the premier class last year. The Monster Yamaha Tech3 satellite team will have two-time consecutive Moto2 World Champion Johann Zarco alongside Jonas Folger, who was seventh overall in last season's Moto2 World Championship. All four riders will be on YZR-M1 machines and will be fighting to help Yamaha reclaim the Triple Crown following its last domination in the MotoGP class in 2015.

Last year, Yamaha returned to the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) after a five-year hiatus. Competing this season in the Pata Yamaha Official WorldSBK Team are Alex Lowes, who contributed to Yamaha's second consecutive victory at the Suzuka 8 Hours last year and ranked 12th overall in the WorldSBK class last season. This year he is accompanied by 2014 World Supersport Champion Michael van der Mark, who ranked fourth in WorldSBK last season and achieved consecutive Suzuka 8 Hours wins in 2013 and 2014. The two aim to prove that the YZF-R1 is the fastest motorcycle on the market and have set out to secure Yamaha's first WorldSBK Championship Title in the class since 2009.

Besides WorldSBK, Yamaha makes its return to the FIM World Supersport Championship (WorldSSP) this year with the GRT Yamaha Official WorldSSP Team, fielding Lucas Mahias. He rode for the GMT94 Yamaha Official EWC Team in 2016, securing the 2016 Endurance Rider World Champion title and helped them take second place in the Endurance World Championship for a second year in a row. This year, the Frenchman will be riding alongside Italian teammate and Yamaha newcomer Federico Caricasulo on the latest YZF-R6, a machine that has secured titles in numerous championships.

In the European Superstock 1000 Championship (STK1000), Florian Marino and Roberto Tamburini will ride the YZF-R1M for the Pata Yamaha Official STK1000 Team.

In the FIM Endurance World Championship, which kicked off its season in September 2016, the GMT94 Yamaha Official EWC Team and YART Yamaha Official EWC Team are looking to add to the tally of their championship titles. Furthermore, Yamaha will once again compete in the Suzuka 8 Hours with a factory team, after winning the previous two years, and will be aiming for its first-ever third consecutive victory. In addition, Japanese rider Kohta Nozane, who has made steady progress riding for Yamaha's youth team in the All Japan Road Race Championship's premier JSB1000 class, will make the step up from competition in Asia to the world stage as a regular rider with the YART Yamaha Official EWC Team.

In the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship, North America's premier road racing championship, last season's back-to-back champion Cameron Beaubier will once again be paired with four-time Superbike Champion Josh Hayes in the Monster Energy/Yamalube/Yamaha Factory Racing Team for the 2017 season. Yamaha will also have teams participating in the Superstock 1000 class with the YZF-R1 and in the Supersport and Superstock 600 classes with the new YZF-R6 looking to win each respective title.

In the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC), the Yamaha Racing Team will contest the SuperSports 600 class with riders Yuki Ito, who finished last season ranked 13th, and Thai rider Keminth Kubo. Kubo is a member of Team Norick, founded by the late former GP racer Norifumi "Norick" Abe, and has refined his skills in local Japanese racing series as well as the Suzuka 4 Hours. The team will again be aiming for the title in its second season in the class while developing its two young riders.

In 2016, a Yamaha rider won the ARRC's AP250 class title and this year local subsidiaries will continue to run the teams with support from Yamaha in the challenge to secure a second consecutive title for the brand while continuing to develop their young talents.

Furthermore, the Yamaha VR46 Master Camp project, which began in 2016 in cooperation with Valentino Rossi's VR46 Riders Academy, aiming to develop young riders and promote their progression through a step-up structure, will be held again in 2017. Last year, six young Asian riders participated in the Master Camp. Among them, Thai rider Apiwat Wongthananon's skills and future potential stood out and he was selected to join the VR46 Master Camp Team and compete in the CEV Moto3 Junior World Championship this year. At the forthcoming Yamaha VR46 Master Camp editions, promising young riders from around the world will be selected to attend, in the hopes of developing future motorcycle racers that thrive at world level.

Motocross/Supercross
In the Motocross World Championship, 2015 MXGP World Champion Romain Febvre, who was ranked fourth in 2016, is riding again for the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP Team alongside his teammate Jeremy Van Horebeek, who finished sixth overall last year. Both are riding the factory-spec YZ450FM in their quest to retake the MXGP title. Making a new entry in the MXGP class for this season is the Wilvo Yamaha Official MXGP Team, fielding YZ450F machines steered by experienced MXGP rider Shaun Simpson and Arnaud Tonus, the latter making his step up from the 250 class AMA Motocross Championship.

In the MX2 class, last season's third-ranked Benoit Paturel is joined by Brent Van doninck and Alvin Ostlund in the Kemea Yamaha Official MX2 Team, all riding the YZ250F with their eyes on taking the championship win.

The Monster Energy/Yamalube/Chaparral/Yamaha Financial Services/Yamaha Factory Racing Team is competing in the premier 450cc class of the AMA Supercross Championship that got its season underway on January 7. Its riders are two-time 450cc class Champion Chad Reed, who returned to Yamaha after seven years and finished fifth in the last season, and Cooper Webb, the young top rider who won both the Supercross 250cc West Division and 250cc Motocross titles in 2016. The two mount their challenge aboard the YZ450F and are out to lift the first crown for Yamaha in the premier class since 2009.

Other Yamaha teams are also participating in the 450cc Supercross Championship and the East and West 250cc Supercross championships aiming for their respective titles, including the Yamalube/Star Racing/Yamaha Team that has produced star riders like Cooper Webb.

Enduro
In the Enduro World Championship, Loic Larrieu will compete on the WR450F in the EnduroGP class and Jamie McCanney, aboard the WR250F, aims to make his mark in the Enduro 2 class for the Outsiders Yamaha Official Enduro Team.

(Document: http://prw.kyodonews.jp/prwfile/release/M102500/201703029492/_prw_PA1fl_0Ppyb02Z.pdf)

Yamaha Motor Releases "MOTOBOT Meets The Doctor"

Yamaha Motor — Thu, 19 May 2016 14:01:20 +0900

IWATA, Japan, May 19, 2016 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.
Yamaha Motor Releases "MOTOBOT Meets The Doctor" Sequel Video
- Yamaha's Autonomous Motorcycle-riding Humanoid Robot Finally Meets MotoGP Star Valentino Rossi -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) released on YouTube on May 19 a sequel to the video first introducing the "MOTOBOT" autonomous motorcycle-riding humanoid robot, a short film shown at the Tokyo Motor Show in the autumn of 2015 that generated massive worldwide response.

MOTOBOT Meets The Doctor (Valentino Rossi)
https://youtu.be/4dUb5T7DU-Q

MOTOBOT is designed and engineered with a focus on riding and operating a motorcycle from the same perspective as a human rider without any modifications being made to the motorcycle itself. MOTOBOT was first unveiled for public viewing at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2015, where it immediately drew widespread attention in Japan and abroad.

MOTOBOT is being developed under the theme of going "Beyond Human Capabilities." In general, robots are machines designed for specific tasks and can thus exceed human capabilities in performing said tasks. Taking advantage of this potential for excellence, MOTOBOT declared in the first video titled "To 'The Doctor'" that it had taken on the challenge of competing against MotoGP star Valentino Rossi through racetrack lap times. In this sequel video titled "MOTOBOT Meets The Doctor," the two finally meet face to face for the first time. Rossi shows his fascination when he first sees MOTOBOT. What exchange takes place between Rossi and one of the MOTOBOT engineers? Don't miss this exciting encounter!

Yamaha Motor is collaborating with SRI International, one of the world's leading R&D centers, to develop MOTOBOT, and will put the knowledge and underlying high-level fundamental technology gained from this challenge to use in product development and towards creating new value.

For more details about MOTOBOT:
http://global.yamaha-motor.com/showroom/event/2015tokyomotorshow/sp/exhibitionmodels/mgp/

MOTOBOT Ver. 1 / To "The Doctor"
https://youtu.be/EzgJWwAx8Mo

Yamaha Motor Advances into African Market

Yamaha Motor — Mon, 16 May 2016 15:00:33 +0900

LAGOS, Nigeria and IWATA, Japan, May 16, 2016 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.
Yamaha Motor Advances into African Market
- First Motorcycle Assembly Plant in Nigeria Marks Second Foray into African Continent -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced today that CFAO Yamaha Motor Nigeria Ltd., a joint venture between Yamaha Motor and CFAO S.A., opened its first motorcycle assembly plant in Africa within the Amuwo Odofin Industrial Scheme area of Lagos, Nigeria on May 13. The facility includes a showroom that showcases Yamaha Motor's wide-ranging lineup for land and water-transport products.

(Photo & Video: http://bit.ly/244rGax)
(YouTube: https://youtu.be/_lUnnRwM4sk)

This marks Yamaha Motor's second foray into Nigeria, as well as the entire African continent, following the cessation of its motorcycle production in Nigeria in 2005.

The plant and showroom will help meet local needs for land and water transportation, including government initiatives to develop Nigeria's aquatic agriculture sector. Production is expected to reach 70,000 motorcycles by 2018.

Visitors to the showroom will be able to view and purchase diverse products from the Yamaha Motor lineup, such as outboard engines, personal watercraft, all-terrain vehicles, generators and Yamalube lubricants, all of which are distributed in Nigeria exclusively by CFAO Yamaha Motor Nigeria.

Yamaha Motor also announced two initiatives for the local motoring public: the Yamaha Technical Academy, which will provide technical training and support services, and the Yamaha Riding Academy, which will promote motorcycle riding safety.

Attendees in the opening ceremony included Lagos Governor Akinwumi Ambode, Yamaha Motor President, CEO and Representative Director Hiroyuki Yanagi, and CFAO Group Chairman Richard Bielle.

CFAO, a Paris-based member of Japan's Toyota Tsusho group, distributes products of major international brands in Africa. The company has been in business for more than 110 years, during which time it has built a vast distribution network in Nigeria.

About CFAO Yamaha Motor Nigeria Ltd.
CFAO Yamaha Motor Nigeria Ltd. is a registered subsidiary of the CFAO group and Yamaha Motor. It was incorporated on April 9, 2015. The company is the exclusive distributor of Yamaha Motor products in Nigeria.

Main Yamaha Teams and Rider Profiles for 2016 International Racing Season

Yamaha Motor — Tue, 01 Mar 2016 16:15:11 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Mar. 1, 2016 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.
Main Yamaha Teams and Rider Profiles for 2016 International Racing Season
Yamaha Motor Co. entered its first race ever at the third Mt. Fuji Ascent Race, just 10 days after the company was founded on July 1, 1955. Since then, the history built up by our many challenges in racing arenas around the world has come to represent the very history of the Yamaha Motor group itself, and the Spirit of Challenge born of these racing activities has become an integral part of our corporate culture.

Yamaha Motor's basic policies for racing activities are as follows:
- Branding: increasing the value of the Yamaha brand
- Technical Feedback: transferring the technologies gained through motorsports to production models
- Promotional Activities: growing interest in race participation and spectatorship worldwide

Last year marked Yamaha Motor's 60th anniversary of its foundation and we conducted our activities based on these basic policies. Our successes included taking the MotoGP Triple Crown of Constructor, Rider and Team titles as well as the MXGP title in the Motocross World Championship. Furthermore, the new YZF-R1, which was developed based on technical feedback from the YZR-M1 MotoGP machine, won the Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Road Race along with titles in Japanese, European and American production-based racing championships.

In addition to these achievements, Yamaha Motor took on new challenges, such as continuing our work to create a "step-up" model to nurture young riders from Asia with the goal of bringing them to the world stage. In 2016 as well, Yamaha Motor will continue its global racing activities in line with these three basic policies to taste further victories and to bring "Kando"* to people all over the world.

*Kando is a Japanese word for the simultaneous feelings of deep satisfaction and intense excitement that we experience when we encounter something of exceptional value.

Road Racing:
In the MotoGP World Championship, the factory Movistar Yamaha MotoGP team will feature Jorge Lorenzo, who claimed his third MotoGP World Championship title in 2015, and Valentino Rossi, who will enter his 15th season in the premier class. Both will ride the 2016 version of the YZR-M1.

Bradley Smith, who last year finished as top satellite rider with a MotoGP career-best 6th place overall, and Pol Espargaro, who was ranked 9th overall, will make up the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 satellite team, also aboard the 2016 YZR-M1. Yamaha will be aiming to secure a second consecutive Triple Crown.

For the first time since 2011, Yamaha Motor will field a team in the World Superbike Championship: the Pata Yamaha Official WorldSBK Team. Riding for the team will be 2014 World Superbike Champion Sylvain Guintoli and Alex Lowes, entering his third season in the class. They will compete on the YZF-R1, which claimed numerous race wins and titles in its debut season last year, in order to prove that it is the fastest production superbike and secure Yamaha Motor's first championship title in the class since 2009.

In the Endurance World Championship, two European teams will compete for the full 2016 season, while a Yamaha factory team will again take part in the third round, the Suzuka 8 Hours, with the goal of repeating last year's triumph. Yamaha Motor will also field teams in Europe's FIM Superstock 1000 Cup and in the Superbike class of the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship, North America's pinnacle road racing series. All the teams will be striving to win their respective championships this year.

Last year, Yamaha Motor began a tiered "step-up" program in Asia to offer a chance for young riders to grow progressively, creating an environment in the Asia Production 250 (AP250) class of the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) where young riders could challenge for results.

This season, Yamaha Motor has formed the new Yamaha Racing Team to contest the championship's premier SuperSports 600 (SS600) class on the YZF-R6 and represent the next level that these AP250 riders should aim for. Riding for the team will be Yuki Ito, who has finished in the top nine for the past four seasons in the class, alongside Muhammad Fitri Ashraf Razali from Malaysia, who will begin his third season in the class. The two will contest the season in hopes of growing as riders and winning the championship.

In the AP250 class, Yamaha Motor will continue to support the riders and teams competing on the YZF-R25 this year.

Motocross/Supercross:
The Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP Team will compete in the Motocross World Championship's pinnacle MXGP class. Romain Febvre, who last year returned the premier-class title to Yamaha Motor for the first time since 2009, and his teammate Jeremy Van Horebeek, who finished 5th overall last season, will be aiming for a second successive world title on the YZ450FM factory machine.

Besides the factory team, other Yamaha teams will be competing in MXGP and its feeder class, MX2. The young riders in MX2 will be fighting for the championship with their eyes on stepping up to the MXGP class.

In the AMA Supercross Championship, which kicked its season off on January 9, the Monster Energy/360fly/Chaparral/Yamaha Factory Racing team is contesting the premier 450cc class with two-time Supercross champion Chad Reed aboard the YZ450F. The Autotrader/Monster Energy/Yamaha Team is also in the 450cc class and aiming for top finishes alongside Reed.

AMA Supercross' 250cc class is divided into East and West regional groups, with each being held as a separate championship. Several young Yamaha riders will compete alongside defending 250cc West Champion Cooper Webb. Yamaha Motor's goal this season is to secure both the East and West championship titles.

http://global.yamaha-motor.com/race/

Yamaha Motor's Operating Income Rises 38%

Yamaha Motor — Tue, 09 Feb 2016 17:36:23 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Feb. 9, 2016 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor's Operating Income Rises 38%

- Even Further Growth Forecast for 2016 -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced on February 9 that operating income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015, soared 38.0 percent to 120.4 billion yen and net sales rose 6.2 percent to 1,615.4 billion yen.

(Documents, Photo & Video: http://bit.ly/1nXLHfM)
(YouTube: https://youtu.be/jKVsKoVFUOI)

Ordinary income climbed 28.7 percent to 125.2 billion yen while net income was down 12.3% at 60.0 billion yen.

Sales and income were strong in developed markets. Increases were recorded with global and higher-priced models in the motorcycle segment, large models (and due to the effect of the yen's depreciation) in the marine segment, and recreational off-highway vehicle (ROV) models in the power-product segment.

In emerging markets, motorcycle sales rose in Vietnam, the Philippines and Taiwan. Premium models also performed well and cost reductions produced positive effects. As a result, reduced unit sales and currency depreciations in markets such as Indonesia, Brazil and China were counterbalanced sufficiently to maintain revenue at the previous year's level.

Yamaha Motor aims to keep its foot firmly on the accelerator in 2016. In addition to rolling out new platform motorcycles, it will leverage its brand power and profitability for expanded investment in the marine segment. The company also intends to grow its earnings power in the ROV sports field and other power-product businesses.

For 2016, Yamaha Motor forecasts net sales rising 5.2 percent to 1,700.0 billion yen and net income climbing 33.3 percent to 80.0 billion yen. Operating income and ordinary income are forecast to decrease 0.4 percent and 0.2 percent, respectively.

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor's Operating Income Rises 38%

Yamaha Motor — Tue, 09 Feb 2016 17:35:34 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Feb. 9, 2016 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor's Operating Income Rises 38%
- Even Further Growth Forecast for 2016 -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced on February 9 that operating income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015, soared 38.0 percent to 120.4 billion yen and net sales rose 6.2 percent to 1,615.4 billion yen.

(Documents, Photo & Video: http://bit.ly/1nXLHfM)
(YouTube: https://youtu.be/jKVsKoVFUOI)

Ordinary income climbed 28.7 percent to 125.2 billion yen while net income was down 12.3% at 60.0 billion yen.

Sales and income were strong in developed markets. Increases were recorded with global and higher-priced models in the motorcycle segment, large models (and due to the effect of the yen's depreciation) in the marine segment, and recreational off-highway vehicle (ROV) models in the power-product segment.

In emerging markets, motorcycle sales rose in Vietnam, the Philippines and Taiwan. Premium models also performed well and cost reductions produced positive effects. As a result, reduced unit sales and currency depreciations in markets such as Indonesia, Brazil and China were counterbalanced sufficiently to maintain revenue at the previous year's level.

Yamaha Motor aims to keep its foot firmly on the accelerator in 2016. In addition to rolling out new platform motorcycles, it will leverage its brand power and profitability for expanded investment in the marine segment. The company also intends to grow its earnings power in the ROV sports field and other power-product businesses.

For 2016, Yamaha Motor forecasts net sales rising 5.2 percent to 1,700.0 billion yen and net income climbing 33.3 percent to 80.0 billion yen. Operating income and ordinary income are forecast to decrease 0.4 percent and 0.2 percent, respectively.

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Targets Net Sales of 2 Trillion Yen

Yamaha Motor — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 18:30:48 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Dec. 15 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Targets Net Sales of 2 Trillion Yen

- Unveils New Medium-term Business Plan by 2018 -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. unveiled on December 15 its new medium-term business plan for the three-year period starting in 2016, under which the company aims to increase the earning power of its existing businesses, expand capital investment, increase dividends and secure a more stable financial foundation. The plan targets net sales of two trillion yen and an operating income ratio of 10 percent by 2018, as well as furthering Yamaha Motor's history of achieving milestones in the fields of motorcycles, personal vehicles, marine products and more.

(Photos & Videos: http://bit.ly/1StNsuo)

(Youtube: https://youtu.be/phfFnf-0yC0)

The plan calls for the creation of a more stable financial foundation, including an equity ratio of 42.5 percent, ROE of 15 percent, dividend payout ratio of 30 percent and earnings per share of at least 300 yen. Yamaha Motor will invest 130 billion yen in new growth strategies, aiming to generate a receivable balance of 300 billion yen from its financing subsidiaries, especially in North America.

Over the next three years, Yamaha Motor plans to launch 270 new models. The models will feature increased product competitiveness incorporating new concepts, technologies that excite customers and inspire their trust, more refined designs and more innovative marketing. The company also aims to lower its cost of materials by five percent.

To support the ongoing global expansion and development of its operations, Yamaha Motor will focus on nurturing human resources who fully embrace the unique YAMAHA brand. Workforce diversity will be expanded with more locally hired personnel and female managers.

Yamaha Motor's business plan targets growth in four promising categories - personal mobility, the three-trillion-yen global marine market, solutions business and the development of fundamental technologies. To maximize growth, the plan strategically focuses on business that enhances consumer lifestyles, enables consumers to enjoy personal mobility, and delivers innovative technologies that harmoniously meet the needs of people, the earth and society.

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Targets Net Sales of 2 Trillion Yen

Yamaha Motor — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 18:29:05 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Dec. 15 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Targets Net Sales of 2 Trillion Yen
- Unveils New Medium-term Business Plan by 2018 -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. unveiled on December 15 its new medium-term business plan for the three-year period starting in 2016, under which the company aims to increase the earning power of its existing businesses, expand capital investment, increase dividends and secure a more stable financial foundation. The plan targets net sales of two trillion yen and an operating income ratio of 10 percent by 2018, as well as furthering Yamaha Motor's history of achieving milestones in the fields of motorcycles, personal vehicles, marine products and more.

(Photos & Videos: http://bit.ly/1StNsuo)

(Youtube: https://youtu.be/phfFnf-0yC0)

The plan calls for the creation of a more stable financial foundation, including an equity ratio of 42.5 percent, ROE of 15 percent, dividend payout ratio of 30 percent and earnings per share of at least 300 yen. Yamaha Motor will invest 130 billion yen in new growth strategies, aiming to generate a receivable balance of 300 billion yen from its financing subsidiaries, especially in North America.

Over the next three years, Yamaha Motor plans to launch 270 new models. The models will feature increased product competitiveness incorporating new concepts, technologies that excite customers and inspire their trust, more refined designs and more innovative marketing. The company also aims to lower its cost of materials by five percent.

To support the ongoing global expansion and development of its operations, Yamaha Motor will focus on nurturing human resources who fully embrace the unique YAMAHA brand. Workforce diversity will be expanded with more locally hired personnel and female managers.

Yamaha Motor's business plan targets growth in four promising categories - personal mobility, the three-trillion-yen global marine market, solutions business and the development of fundamental technologies. To maximize growth, the plan strategically focuses on business that enhances consumer lifestyles, enables consumers to enjoy personal mobility, and delivers innovative technologies that harmoniously meet the needs of people, the earth and society.

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor's Operating Income Rises Solid 41.9%

Yamaha Motor — Tue, 04 Aug 2015 18:00:14 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Aug. 4 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor's Operating Income Rises Solid 41.9%

- Marine Business Steadily Growing with Operating Income Ratio Surpassing 20% -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced on August 4 that its consolidated operating income for the 2015 half year rose 41.9% from a year earlier to 69.7 billion yen. Profit structures continued to improve in all segments. Net sales rose 8.6% to 821.1 billion yen. Ordinary income jumped 51.5% to 74.4 billion yen and net income soared 61.7% to 52.1 billion yen.

(Photos & videos: http://image.net/ymc_1sthalfresult_2015 )

http://youtu.be/0_iDdN4pbOE

You can embed the video on your website.

Business in developed markets shifted into the black thanks to structural reforms and well-received motorcycle launches.

Business in emerging markets remained relatively healthy. Increased sales of high-end products and the introduction of platform models countered the effects of declining sales volumes in Indonesia and Brazil and currency depreciation in emerging markets.

Net sales of motorcycles rose 7.6% to 518.2 billion yen and operating income climbed 65.8% to 18.6 billion yen. Net sales increased thanks to high-end products in emerging markets and new product launches. Rising operating income was supported by higher sales, cost reductions and the yen's depreciation.

Unit sales increased in developed markets, aided by successful products such as the YZF-R1 superbike and the MT-09 TRACER sports touring model. Sales in North America and Europe increased 28% and 14%, respectively.

Unit sales rose in emerging markets such as Vietnam and the Philippines, led by popular models such as the Exciter and Nozza Grande. Economic slumps pushed down sales in certain other emerging markets, such as Indonesia and Brazil.

In the marine segment, large outboard motors boosted overall sales and income. Net sales in the segment rose 12.0% to 168.8 billion yen. Operating income surged 41.7% to 39.3 billion yen. Increased sales and income benefited from stronger unit sales of large outboard motors and water vehicles in the U.S. and the yen's depreciation. The operating income ratio exceeded 20%.

For the half year, the dollar traded at 115 yen, up 6 yen from the previous year, and the euro traded at 130 yen, down 10 yen.

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor and Valentino Rossi Debut at 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed

Yamaha Motor — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 04:00:48 +0900

WEST SUSSEX, U. K. and IWATA, Japan, June 29 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor and Valentino Rossi Debut at 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed

- Celebrating Yamaha Motor's 60-year Commitment to Motorsport -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announced today that the company and its Movistar Yamaha MotoGP racing team's Valentino Rossi made their debuts at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the world's largest motorsport garden party, which was held in West Sussex, the U. K., on June 25-28. The gala appearances were part of Yamaha Motor's ongoing celebration of its 60th anniversary this year of its founding.

(Photos & videos: http://image.net/yamaha_goodwoodfestival_2015)

Yamaha Motor showcased its celebrated racing DNA with a lineup of historic roadracers, including the Yamaha RD56 Grand Prix two-stroke and YZR500 (0W23), guided respectively by motorsport legends Phil Read and Giacomo Agostini, and the company's celebrated 2015 model, the YZR-M1 MotoGP.

Nine-time world champion Rossi tackled the iconic 1.16-mile Hillclimb on his specially colored YZR-M1, delighting a crowd of race fans and motor enthusiasts.

Yamaha's debut came at the invitation of Lord March, who founded the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 1993. The event, the latest milestone in Yamaha Motor's 60-year commitment to motorsport, provided the company with an opportune venue for demonstrating its "Revs Your Heart" motto and Japanese-inspired "Kando" philosophy of experiencing thrill when encountering immense value.

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor and Valentino Rossi Debut at 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed

Yamaha Motor — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 04:00:14 +0900

WEST SUSSEX, U. K. and IWATA, Japan, June 29 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor and Valentino Rossi Debut at 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed
- Celebrating Yamaha Motor's 60-year Commitment to Motorsport -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announced today that the company and its Movistar Yamaha MotoGP racing team's Valentino Rossi made their debuts at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the world's largest motorsport garden party, which was held in West Sussex, the U. K., on June 25-28. The gala appearances were part of Yamaha Motor's ongoing celebration of its 60th anniversary this year of its founding.

(Photos & videos: http://image.net/yamaha_goodwoodfestival_2015)

Yamaha Motor showcased its celebrated racing DNA with a lineup of historic roadracers, including the Yamaha RD56 Grand Prix two-stroke and YZR500 (0W23), guided respectively by motorsport legends Phil Read and Giacomo Agostini, and the company's celebrated 2015 model, the YZR-M1 MotoGP.

Nine-time world champion Rossi tackled the iconic 1.16-mile Hillclimb on his specially colored YZR-M1, delighting a crowd of race fans and motor enthusiasts.

Yamaha's debut came at the invitation of Lord March, who founded the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 1993. The event, the latest milestone in Yamaha Motor's 60-year commitment to motorsport, provided the company with an opportune venue for demonstrating its "Revs Your Heart" motto and Japanese-inspired "Kando" philosophy of experiencing thrill when encountering immense value.

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Season 2 of Yamaha Motor's Original Short Anime "Master of Torque" Released

Yamaha Motor — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 14:00:03 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Apr. 8 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.
Season 2 of Yamaha Motor's Original Short Anime "Master of Torque" Released
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) has globally released the second season of "Master of Torque," an original short anime series for entertainment purposes initially released online from the spring through the summer of 2014.

The Master of Torque anime is set in Tokyo in the near future and tells the fictional story of a group of young motorcycle riders. It is meant to help communicate the fun of motorcycles to younger people, primarily in their teens and twenties.

Taking place around globally recognized sources of modern Japanese culture that lie along Route 246 in Tokyo, like Aoyama, Omote-sando and Shibuya, the Master of Torque anime paints a vivid picture of the joys of motorcycles and the lifestyle they can bring by highlighting the unique characteristics of Yamaha's MT Series of motorcycles, all within the context of a dramatic story depicting the conflicts and confrontations between the colorful cast of characters.

The anime's production combines the storytelling and techniques of Japanese animation that are popular among young people around the world today and the talent of several accomplished anime voice actors. The result is a full-fledged piece of entertainment representing a uniquely Yamaha form of communication to young people around the world.

Special site (English): http://global.yamaha-motor.com/showroom/mt
Special site (Japanese): http://global.yamaha-motor.com/jp/showroom/mt/
Official YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/YamahaMotorcompany

Yamaha Motor Operating Income Exceeds 80 Billion Yen

Yamaha Motor — Thu, 12 Feb 2015 19:12:56 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Feb. 12 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Operating Income Exceeds 80 Billion Yen

- Medium-term Target Achieved One Year Ahead of Schedule -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced on February 12 that consolidated operating income in the fiscal year ending December 31, 2014 surged 58.2% to 87.2 billion yen, or about 730 million USD, thanks to consecutive annual increases in both sales and all income categories. The company achieved its 2013-2015 medium-term target of 80 billion yen in operating income one year ahead of schedule.

(Video of the CEO's presentation: http://youtu.be/NVDo8MEKC2U)

(Photos & materials: www.image.net/ymc_fyresults_2014 )

Net sales rose 7.9% to 1,521.2 billion yen, or 12.8 billion USD, with increases achieved in all business segments, including motorcycles, marine products, power products, industrial machinery & robots, and other products. Increased sales were supported by expanded product lineups, including products in higher price ranges, and the effects of the yen's depreciation.

Global net sales of motorcycles came to 977.6 billion yen, up 49.4 billion yen, and operating income was 22.9 billion yen, an increase of 14.6 billion yen. In developed markets, sales increased 13% thanks to a rebound in overall demand and new product launches. In emerging markets, sales in India rose 23% thanks to increased demand and new product launches, while ASEAN region sales fell 9% due to decreased demand and reduced product competitiveness. Overall, unit sales totaled 5.8 million motorcycles, down 4%.

Net sales of marine products such as boats rose 13.6% to 276.4 billion yen and operating income soared 44.1% to 45.8 billion yen.

For the year, the U.S. dollar traded at 106 yen, up 8 yen from the previous fiscal year, and the euro at 140 yen, up 10 yen.

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Operating Income Exceeds 80 Billion Yen

Yamaha Motor — Thu, 12 Feb 2015 19:08:45 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Feb. 12 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Operating Income Exceeds 80 Billion Yen
- Medium-term Target Achieved One Year Ahead of Schedule -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced on February 12 that consolidated operating income in the fiscal year ending December 31, 2014 surged 58.2% to 87.2 billion yen, or about 730 million USD, thanks to consecutive annual increases in both sales and all income categories. The company achieved its 2013-2015 medium-term target of 80 billion yen in operating income one year ahead of schedule.

(Video of the CEO's presentation: http://youtu.be/NVDo8MEKC2U)

(Photos & materials: www.image.net/ymc_fyresults_2014 )

Net sales rose 7.9% to 1,521.2 billion yen, or 12.8 billion USD, with increases achieved in all business segments, including motorcycles, marine products, power products, industrial machinery & robots, and other products. Increased sales were supported by expanded product lineups, including products in higher price ranges, and the effects of the yen's depreciation.

Global net sales of motorcycles came to 977.6 billion yen, up 49.4 billion yen, and operating income was 22.9 billion yen, an increase of 14.6 billion yen. In developed markets, sales increased 13% thanks to a rebound in overall demand and new product launches. In emerging markets, sales in India rose 23% thanks to increased demand and new product launches, while ASEAN region sales fell 9% due to decreased demand and reduced product competitiveness. Overall, unit sales totaled 5.8 million motorcycles, down 4%.

Net sales of marine products such as boats rose 13.6% to 276.4 billion yen and operating income soared 44.1% to 45.8 billion yen.

For the year, the U.S. dollar traded at 106 yen, up 8 yen from the previous fiscal year, and the euro at 140 yen, up 10 yen.

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Celebrates 60th Year in Motorsports

Yamaha Motor — Fri, 06 Feb 2015 01:42:21 +0900

SEPANG, Malaysia and IWATA, Japan, Feb. 5 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Celebrates 60th Year in Motorsports
- Fostering Motorsports in Asian and ASEAN Regions -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo:7272) announced on February 5 plans for the Asian and ASEAN regions, including a redoubled commitment to the MotoGP World Championship series and new directions for the company's venerable motorsports program, which is now celebrating its 60th year, during the Yamaha Motorsports Media Conference in Sepang, Malaysia.

Photos and videos: http://www.image.net/yamaha_racing_media_meeting_2015

Yamaha Motor unveiled its new team for MotoGP, the focus of its motorsports program. Riders Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo from Movistar Yamaha MotoGP were joined by riders from satellite team Monster Yamaha Tech3 as well as Forward Racing, which leases the YZR-M1, along with support personnel, all of whom came together to discuss their aspirations for the upcoming season.

Yamaha also announced its initiatives to encourage young riders to get involved in motorsports in the Asian and ASEAN regions, and the company's plans to participate in the 250cc class of the Asia Road Racing Championship series.

Yamaha, now in celebrating its 60th year in motorsports, has positioned 2015 as an important year in its long-term strategy to promote "Kando," the Japanese concept of simultaneously feeling deep satisfaction and intense excitement when encountering something of exceptional value.

Executive Vice President Takaaki Kimura said: "Yamaha's participation in motorsports, which began in 1955 when the company was established, has enjoyed an illustrious and unbroken run of 60 years. Our racing program is now focusing on branding, technical feedback and activities to generate new interest in motor sports. This includes participating in the Asia Road Racing Championship series in support of young riders, and our new YZF-R1 motorcycle that incorporates advanced technologies developed through highly competitive racing. Of course, we will spare no effort on the track to achieve the ultimate goal of winning, especially this year, our 60th anniversary."

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Celebrates 60th Year in Motorsports

Yamaha Motor — Fri, 06 Feb 2015 01:00:09 +0900

SEPANG, Malaysia and IWATA, Japan, Feb. 5 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Celebrates 60th Year in Motorsports

- Fostering Motorsports in Asian and ASEAN Regions -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo:7272) announced on February 5 plans for the Asian and ASEAN regions, including a redoubled commitment to the MotoGP World Championship series and new directions for the company's venerable motorsports program, which is now celebrating its 60th year, during the Yamaha Motorsports Media Conference in Sepang, Malaysia.

Photos and videos: http://www.image.net/yamaha_racing_media_meeting_2015

Yamaha Motor unveiled its new team for MotoGP, the focus of its motorsports program. Riders Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo from Movistar Yamaha MotoGP were joined by riders from satellite team Monster Yamaha Tech3 as well as Forward Racing, which leases the YZR-M1, along with support personnel, all of whom came together to discuss their aspirations for the upcoming season.

Yamaha also announced its initiatives to encourage young riders to get involved in motorsports in the Asian and ASEAN regions, and the company's plans to participate in the 250cc class of the Asia Road Racing Championship series.

Yamaha, now in celebrating its 60th year in motorsports, has positioned 2015 as an important year in its long-term strategy to promote "Kando," the Japanese concept of simultaneously feeling deep satisfaction and intense excitement when encountering something of exceptional value.

Executive Vice President Takaaki Kimura said: "Yamaha's participation in motorsports, which began in 1955 when the company was established, has enjoyed an illustrious and unbroken run of 60 years. Our racing program is now focusing on branding, technical feedback and activities to generate new interest in motor sports. This includes participating in the Asia Road Racing Championship series in support of young riders, and our new YZF-R1 motorcycle that incorporates advanced technologies developed through highly competitive racing. Of course, we will spare no effort on the track to achieve the ultimate goal of winning, especially this year, our 60th anniversary."

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Unveils Two New YZF-R1 Supersport Models at EICMA

Yamaha Motor — Tue, 04 Nov 2014 14:07:54 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Nov. 4
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Unveils Two New YZF-R1 Supersport Models at EICMA
- YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M Share Lineage with MotoGP Machines -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced on November 4 that it unveiled its new flagship YZF-R1 and high-end YZF-R1M supersport motorbikes, both featuring an entirely new 998 cubic-centimeter liquid-cooled, in-line four-cylinder engine with a crossplane crankshaft, at the November 3 press event of the EICMA international motorcycle show in Milan, Italy, which runs from November 4 to 9.

The all-new 2015 YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M are based on Yamaha's "High Tech Armed Pure Sport" concept of an all-out supersport model fully armed with advanced technology. Designed to be the fastest machines on the circuit, they allow riders to experience firsthand the technical philosophy behind Yamaha's MotoGP racing machine, the YZR-M1. Along with an impressive 200hp, these are the world's first two commercial motorcycles with a 6-axis position sensor that detects 3-axis angular velocity and 3-axis acceleration. Coupled with advanced control technology, Yamaha's sophisticated sensor provides high-dimension handling and performance, allowing the rider to devote more attention to pure riding.

Incorporating hot features from the YZR-M1 MotoGP machine, the design is an entirely new R-DNA based on Yamaha's "Speed Racer" concept, which combines a small silhouette, rider-machine unity and headlight-less front face. The high-end YZF-R1M also boasts an electronically controlled suspension, lightweight carbon fairing and a digital interface that records valuable racing information.

The European market for 1,000cc supersport models has grown considerably, led by users with a passion for riding their machines on racing circuits. Loaded with signature technologies from Yamaha Motor, the YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M will appeal not only to developed markets, but also to emerging markets and beyond where they are expected to help drive the Yamaha global brand.

The two models will be released in Europe in early March 2015 and later in North America.

For photos and more details about YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M, please visit the links below.
Photos: http://image.net/ymc_eicma2014
Specifications:
http://global.yamaha-motor.com/news/2014/1104/yzf-r1.html

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Unveils Two New YZF-R1 Supersport Models at EICMA

Yamaha Motor — Tue, 04 Nov 2014 14:00:27 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Nov. 4 /Kyodo JBN --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Unveils Two New YZF-R1 Supersport Models at EICMA

- YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M Share Lineage with MotoGP Machines -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced on November 4 that it unveiled its new flagship YZF-R1 and high-end YZF-R1M supersport motorbikes, both featuring an entirely new 998 cubic-centimeter liquid-cooled, in-line four-cylinder engine with a crossplane crankshaft, at the November 3 press event of the EICMA international motorcycle show in Milan, Italy, which runs from November 4 to 9.

The all-new 2015 YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M are based on Yamaha's "High Tech Armed Pure Sport" concept of an all-out supersport model fully armed with advanced technology. Designed to be the fastest machines on the circuit, they allow riders to experience firsthand the technical philosophy behind Yamaha's MotoGP racing machine, the YZR-M1. Along with an impressive 200hp, these are the world's first two commercial motorcycles with a 6-axis position sensor that detects 3-axis angular velocity and 3-axis acceleration. Coupled with advanced control technology, Yamaha's sophisticated sensor provides high-dimension handling and performance, allowing the rider to devote more attention to pure riding.

Incorporating hot features from the YZR-M1 MotoGP machine, the design is an entirely new R-DNA based on Yamaha's "Speed Racer" concept, which combines a small silhouette, rider-machine unity and headlight-less front face. The high-end YZF-R1M also boasts an electronically controlled suspension, lightweight carbon fairing and a digital interface that records valuable racing information.

The European market for 1,000cc supersport models has grown considerably, led by users with a passion for riding their machines on racing circuits. Loaded with signature technologies from Yamaha Motor, the YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M will appeal not only to developed markets, but also to emerging markets and beyond where they are expected to help drive the Yamaha global brand.

The two models will be released in Europe in early March 2015 and later in North America.

For photos and more details about YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M, please visit the links below.
Photos: http://image.net/ymc_eicma2014
Specifications:
http://global.yamaha-motor.com/news/2014/1104/yzf-r1.html

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Announce Strategies for Achieving Net Sales of 2 Trillion Yen in 2017

Yamaha Motor — Fri, 12 Sep 2014 19:04:58 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Sep. 12 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Announce Strategies for Achieving Net Sales of 2 Trillion Yen in 2017
- Aiming for Net Sales of Over 1.6 Trillion Yen Ahead of Schedule -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) laid out initiatives aimed at the early achievement of the 2 trillion in net sales with an operating income ratio of 7.5% by 2017 set out in their medium-term plan. The company announced new goals for each business segment, including net sales of over 1 trillion yen or about 9.4 billion USD in the motorcycle business, net sales of over 300 billion yen and high-profit structure with an operating income ratio of 15% or more in the marine business, and over 300 billion yen sales in other segments as early as 2015.

(Video of the CEO's presentation: http://youtu.be/Oih-M2a6hzM)

(More materials: http://www.image.net/ymc_businessinfo2014 )

In the motorcycle business, Yamaha Motor will expand the range of global models and next-generation platform models, and reveal newly-developed engines based on the BLUE CORE concept which strives to take riding enjoyment, fuel efficiency and environmental performance to new levels. The aim is to reach an annual production of 5 million units with three BLUE CORE engines utilized in platform models by 2020. They further intend to accomplish a 40% platform model aggregation by 2015. The reduction of parts suppliers from 400 in 2012 to 195 has already been accomplished.

60% of the new models announced in the medium-term plan have been released, with the highly anticipated R-Series, MT-Series, Max-Series and LMW (Leaning Multi Wheel) models that epitomize innovative concepts, unsurpassed performance and function, and design that expresses a refined dynamism, still to come.

The company is also targeting the 3 billion yen global marine market. In developed markets, they will focus on expanding the US hull business and bolstering their lineup of competitive next-generation models for classes that have had less coverage to date. For emerging markets, they will establish a factory to supply fiber-reinforced plastic hulls for the fishing market in Zhangzidao, Dalian City, China.

In the other business segments, Yamaha wants to showcase their commitment to unique versatility by proposing new business models and expanding ROV (Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle), industrial robot, smart power vehicle, and industrial-use unmanned helicopter categories.

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Releases Entertaining "RevTranslator" App of English Version

Yamaha Motor — Mon, 01 Sep 2014 17:00:33 +0900

IWATA, Japan, Sept. 1 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.
Yamaha Motor Releases Entertaining "RevTranslator" App of English Version
- App Enables Engines to "Talk" with Owners -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced on September 1 the release of the English-language version of RevTranslator, a smartphone app that analyzes sounds and operating environments to enable engines to "speak" to their owners. The app is now available at App Store and Google Play for free (data charges may apply).

Visit the special site: http://global.yamaha-motor.com/about/brand/apps

RevTranslator analyzes engine sounds and then converts them into computer-generated speeches using a database of over 100 million phrases. Using additional factors such as time of day and weather, as well as engine sounds, it assesses operational status to convey the engine's "feelings."

Example phrases include: "Running is my happiness," "Give me a break, will you?" and "Let me go along with you until the end of the world."

"RevTranslator enables customers to take a fresh view of their engines," said Yusuke Tsunemoto, who led the app development team for Yamaha. "Although the app is meant to be entertaining, customers can use it to better understand the condition of their Yamaha motorcycles, sport boats, snowmobiles and generators."

The app was inspired by the brand slogan, "Revs your Heart," which expresses Yamaha Motor's desire to provide customers with joyful and exciting experiences.

While using the app, users accumulate points that can be used to unlock digital mascots and other exclusive content related to Yamaha products worldwide.

The Japanese version of RevTranslator was released on July 23 and created a buzz in cyberspace among motorcycle enthusiasts and other parties.

App Store is a trademark of Apple Inc.
Google Play is a trademark of Google Inc.
If you are interested in further information about Yamaha Motor, please send an e-mail to Mariko Saito (saitoumar@yamaha-motor.co.jp) to put you on the Yamaha Motor media list.

Yamaha Motor's 1st Half Operating Income Soars 62%

Yamaha Motor — Tue, 05 Aug 2014 20:00:18 +0900

TOKYO, Aug. 5 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor's 1st Half Operating Income Soars 62%

- Expects to Reach 80b Yen Annual Target One Year Ahead of Schedule -

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced on August 5 its consolidated operating income in the January-June first half surged 62.4% to 49.1 billion yen, or about 480 million (USD), from the previous year. The company is now forecasting operating income of at least 80 billion yen for the current full year, one year earlier than originally targeted under its 2013-2015 business plan.

(Video of the CEO's presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvJpiQRU1Tg )

(Photos & materials: http://image.net/ymc_2ndquarter_2014 )

Net sales rose 7.6% to 756 billion yen, with increases recorded in all business segments of the company. Ordinary income surged 60.6% to 49.1 billion yen and net income rose a brisk 57.6% to 32.2 billion yen.

The large jump in operating income reflects strong sales of motorcycles and marine products in developed markets. Large-model marine products have sold especially well and motorcycle sales have recovered even better than expected.

Yamaha Motor is launching products aggressively in each of business segments - motorcycles, marine products, power products, industrial machinery and robotics. Organizational reforms are progressing, including the streamlining of domestic production and European business structure, as well as cost reductions.
The full-year forecast for net sales remains unchanged at 1,500 billion yen. Increased sales of marine products and motorcycles in developed markets are expected to compensate for decreased sales of motorcycles in Thailand and Vietnam.

During the second quarter, the Japanese yen traded at 102 yen to the U.S. dollar, a year-on-year depreciation of 6 yen, and 140 yen to the euro, a depreciation of 14 yen.

(Archived materials: http://global.yamaha-motor.com/ir/report/ )

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor's Futuristic TRICITY Extends Growing World of Personal Mobility

Yamaha Motor — Tue, 01 Jul 2014 18:30:10 +0900

IWATA, Japan, July 1 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor's Futuristic TRICITY Extends Growing World of Personal Mobility

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announced on July 1 the Japan-market release of the TRICITY, the first in a series of vehicles that offer users new values through Yamaha's "Leaning Multi Wheel (L.M.W.)" mechanism. A highly futuristic three-wheeler motorcycle, the TRICITY extends Yamaha's vision of a growing world of personal mobility filled with highly distinct vehicles.

(Photo: http://www.image.net/ymc_tricity)

Yamaha Motor reaches out to consumers worldwide with innovative concepts, superior technologies and dynamic designs. With its revolutionary new TRICITY, Yamaha has combined a feeling of stability and sporty handling for a whole new kind of personal-motoring enjoyment. Embodying the design concept "Smart for All," the TRICITY will create a brand new world of riders, as well as a new market for personal mobility.

The TRICITY is one of several vehicles to incorporate Yamaha's ingenious Leaning-Multi-Wheel mechanism, which will embrace commuter vehicles and even sport utilities in the foreseeable future.

For media inquiries and if you are interested in further information about Yamaha Motor, please send email so that you will be added to our media list.

Source: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.