KENNESAW, Ga.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Yamaha Marine introduced its HARMO electric outboard system to the U.S. market today during the 2021 International Boatbuilders Exhibition and Conference (IBEX®) in Tampa, Florida.
Coupling a 48-volt power supply with a high-yield, low-drag 3.7-kilowatt motor, HARMO’s rim-drive electric motor and specially encased impeller provide an incredible 225 pounds of static thrust - the equivalent of a conventional 9.9-horsepower gas-powered motor. Run times depend on battery type, size, configuration and operational parameters.
While rim drive motors have been deployed for thrusters and other marine applications, this is the first application in an outboard motor.
“HARMO is the perfect system for horsepower or internal-combustion restricted waterways. Ultimately, it is up to our boat builder customers to decide how to integrate it into their boats, and we are eager to see the result,” said Ben Speciale, President, Yamaha Marine U.S. Business Unit.
The system includes Helm Master® EX system controls (including the joystick) for simple, intuitive operation in a clean, quiet system. HARMO also features integrated Digital Electric Steering (DES), and a 140-degree total steering angle, combining strong, smooth acceleration with incredibly sharp handling and control. The control system can rotate a single-engine boat within its length and allows for true lateral operation in twin configuration. Additionally, its extreme 74-degree tilt angle helps keeps the impeller clear of the water when not in use.
The motor offers virtually silent operation, quick response, crisp and dramatic maneuvering, and easy-to-understand and operate controls. Available in single or twin configurations, the HARMO motor unit weighs 121 pounds and the system can effectively maneuver boats up to 32 feet in most conditions.
The latest product to emerge from Yamaha’s CommandBlue™ engineering and design philosophy, HARMO combines advanced propulsion technology, environmental awareness, future vision and proven joystick control to provide high thrust and maneuverability
Yamaha’s CommandBlue philosophy drives the design and development of new, connected technologies and technology-based products from the consumer’s perspective, specifically to simplify boating and instill deep feelings of confidence, satisfaction, and excitement while on the water.
Deriving its name from the harmony that exists between a vessel, its propulsion system, its passengers and the environment, HARMO is available through boat builders only and in European markets now. U.S. availability is expected within 18 months.
For boat builders, marine industry dealers, aftermarket suppliers and buyers, designers, repairers, surveyors, and boatyard/marine operators, IBEX® is the single source for the latest boatbuilding technologies, tools, and materials.
Yamaha Marine products are marketed throughout the United States and around the world. Yamaha Marine U.S. Business Unit, based in Kennesaw, Ga., supports its 2,400 U.S. dealers and boat builders with marketing, training and parts for Yamaha’s full line of products and strives to be the industry leader in reliability, technology and customer service. Yamaha Marine is the only outboard brand to have earned NMMA®’s C.S.I. Customer Satisfaction Index award every year since its inception.
REMEMBER to always observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and drive. Dress properly with a USCG-approved personal floatation device and protective gear.
®2021 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.
This document contains many of Yamaha’s valuable trademarks. It may also contain trademarks belonging to other companies. Any references to other companies or their products are for identification purposes only and are not intended to be an endorsement.
