Yamaha announces creation of Marine Connected Division

Yamaha has announced the creation of a marine connected division to incorporate its connected business model into Yamaha Marine’s business units.

The company also revealed plans for a new Marine Innovation Centre in Kennesaw, Georgia, and a substantial expansion of its testing facility in Bridgeport, Alabama.

The new comes as Yamaha recently acquired Siren Marine.

“Yamaha is investing in the resources that will allow us to be the leader in connected technology,” says Ben Speciale, president, Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit. “The rapid evolution of connected boat technology is changing the way our customers approach boating. We are developing innovative products that will deliver a more exceptional experience for Yamaha customers.”

The new division will include two departments. The business planning department will work directly with Yamaha Marine development teams and the Siren Marine team. It will support the near-term needs of Yamaha and Siren customers as well as longer-term developments that will add more value to Yamaha connected products. Meanwhile, the user experience/interface department will help shape future consumer connected experiences. This team will work closely with U.S. marine development and planning division, which now combines Yamaha outboard and watercraft research and development.

Yamaha and Siren plan to introduce new, co-developed products to consumers in the next 12-24 months.

Andrew Cullen (pictured above) will become division manager fo connectivity, leading the new Yamaha Marine connected division. Cullen is now responsible for all facets of the connected boat experience, including working with Yamaha’s internal product development teams, coordinating with the Siren Marine division, as well as cross-functional work with team members at Yamaha Motor Company in Japan.