Last Updated:

2024-05-08 06:55:47

Yamaha Motor Company

Japanese mobility manufacturer since 1955

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Japanese mobility manufacturer since 1955

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. is a Japanese company producing motorcycles, motorboats, outboard motors, and other motorized products. Established in 1955, it spun off from Yamaha Corporation. The company's wide range of products includes motorcycles, scooters, boats, ATVs, golf carts, generators, snowmobiles, and more. Yamaha is a major player in motorcycle and water vehicle sales globally.

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1887

Establishment of Yamaha as Nippon Gakki Company

Yamaha was founded in 1887 by Torakusu Yamaha as Nippon Gakki Company, Limited in Hamamatsu, initially focusing on manufacturing pianos and reed organs. The company's origins are still evident in its logo, featuring a trio of interlocking tuning forks.

1898

Establishment of the Tuning Fork as Corporate Mark

In 1898, the tuning fork was officially established as the corporate mark for Yamaha. This iconic symbol has been used for tuning and other purposes, evolving into various 'tuning fork marks' over time.

1916

Death of Torakusu Yamaha

Torakusu Yamaha, the founder of Yamaha, passed away in 1916 at the age of 64 during World War I. Despite his death, the brand continued to thrive and became a globally recognized benchmark.

1945

Halt in Musical Instrument Production

In 1945, Nippon Gakki had to cease production of musical instruments entirely due to the circumstances of World War II. The focus shifted towards wartime necessities like propellers for Zero fighter planes, fuel tanks, and wing parts.

1947

Resumption of Harmonica Export

After the Allied powers approved civilian trade in 1947, Nippon Gakki, later known as Yamaha, resumed the export of harmonicas. This marked a significant step towards rebuilding the company's musical instrument production post-World War II.

1954

Opening of Yamaha Music School

In 1954, Yamaha opened a school that later became known as Yamaha Music School, marking the beginning of their contribution to spreading music culture.

1955-07-01

Establishment of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. was established in 1955 as a separate entity from Nippon Gakki Co., Ltd. (currently Yamaha Corporation). It started with the production of the YA-1 125cc motorcycle, which was a competitive success in racing events.

1956

YA-1 and YC-1 victories at 4th Mount Fuji Ascent Race

In the 4th Mount Fuji Ascent Race, YA-1 bikes claimed 1st to 8th positions in the 125cc class, while YC-1 motorcycles clinched 1st to 5th spots in the 250cc class.

1957

Yamaha Motor Hamamatsu Research Institute established

The Yamaha Motor Hamamatsu Research Institute was founded in 1957, leading to the relocation of operations from the Nippon Gakki Hamamatsu Research Institute.

1958

YA-2 wins Japan's Good Design Award

Yamaha's motorcycle model YA-2 became the first motorcycle to win Japan's prestigious Good Design Award.

1959

Release of YDS1 Sports Motorcycle

In 1959, the first full-fledged sports motorcycle by a Japanese maker, known as 'YDS1', was released. Actor Yujiro Ishihara was featured as a commercial endorser for this motorcycle.

1960

First Yamaha outboard motor 'P-7' released

Yamaha introduced its first outboard motor, the 'P-7', showcasing the company's innovation in marine technology.

1961

Yamaha listed on First Section of Tokyo Stock Exchange

Yamaha was listed on the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange with a capitalization of 800 million yen and 1.6 million shares, reflecting the company's growth and financial strength.

1962

Won Novice 250 and 350cc classes of 1st All Japan Road Race Championship

In 1962, Yamaha achieved victory in the Novice 250 and 350cc classes at the inaugural All Japan Road Race Championship.

1963

Yamaha's First Victory in International Competition at Belgian GP

In 1963, Yamaha secured their first victory in international competition at the Belgian GP, winning the 250cc class. This triumph highlighted Yamaha's dedication to racing and the success of their two-stroke engine technology.

1964

First manufacturer and rider titles in 250cc class of the road race World GP

In 1964, Yamaha secured their first manufacturer and rider titles in the 250cc class of the road race World Grand Prix.

1965-10

Tie-up with Toyota Motor Co. to develop and manufacture Toyota 2000GT

In October 1965, Yamaha collaborated with Toyota Motor Co. to work on the development and production of the iconic Toyota 2000GT, which was showcased at the Tokyo Motor Show.

1967

Computer systems installed at YMC

In 1967, computer systems were installed at Yamaha Motor Company, marking a significant technological advancement within the company.

1968

Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. (YMENV) founded in the Netherlands

In 1968, Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. (YMENV) was established in the Netherlands, expanding Yamaha's presence into the European market.

1969

Introduction of Yamaha RD and RS families

In early 1969, Yamaha added reed-valve induction to its previously piston-ported designs to produce the twin-cylinder RD and single-cylinder RS families, with variants in a number of capacities.

1970

First Yamaha motorcycle mounting a 4-stroke engine 'XS1' released

Yamaha introduced the first motorcycle with a 4-stroke engine, the 'XS1'.

1971

Won snowmobile manufacturer title at Eagle River World Championship competition (U.S.)

Yamaha achieved the title of snowmobile manufacturer at the Eagle River World Championship competition in the U.S.

1972

First win in Motocross World GP at Round 10, Swedish GP (250cc class)

Yamaha achieved its first victory in the Motocross World GP at Round 10, Swedish GP in the 250cc class.

1973

Introduction of Yamaha Monoshock rear suspension

Yamaha was an early innovator in dirt-bike technology and introduced the first single-shock rear suspension, the trademarked 'Monoshock' in 1973. It appeared in production on the 1974 Yamaha YZ-250, making it Yamaha's longest continuous model and name.

1974

Won manufacturer titles in all classes of road race World GP

In 1974, Yamaha achieved manufacturer titles in all classes of the road race World GP, including 125cc, 250cc, 350cc, and 500cc.

1975

Yamaha introduces production monoshock motocross bike

In 1975, Yamaha became the first to build a production monoshock motocross bike for 250 and 400 models, revolutionizing the motocross industry.

1976

First Yamaha industrial robot model released

Yamaha introduced its first industrial robot model, an 'arc welding robot', marking its entry into the robotics industry.

1978

Introduction of Yamaha XS-1100

Yamaha's first four-cylinder model, the XS-1100, was introduced in 1978, again with shaft drive. Despite being heavier and more touring oriented than its rivals, it produced an impressive string of victories in endurance racing.

1979-01-01

XT500 wins 1st Paris-Dakar Rally

In 1979, Yamaha's XT500 motorcycle emerged victorious in the first Paris-Dakar Rally.

1980

Prosperity and Diversification

In 1980, Yamaha experienced prosperity and diversification in its operations.

1981

Introduction of Yamaha XV750 cruiser

In 1981, Yamaha launched the XV750, featuring an air-cooled V-twin four-stroke engine and cruiser styling. It was among the early Japanese cruiser motorcycles, signaling Yamaha's entry into the cruiser market segment.

1982

Technical Center opened at YMC headquarters

In 1982, Yamaha established a Technical Center at its headquarters to focus on research and development of new technologies and products.

1983

Yamaha DX7 Digital Synthesizer

In 1983, Yamaha introduced the first commercially successful digital synthesizer called the Yamaha DX7.

1984

Contract with Ford Motor Company

Yamaha signed a contract with Ford to develop and supply compact V6 engines for the Ford Taurus SHO.

1985

Launch of Yamaha FZ750

The Yamaha FZ750 was introduced in 1985 as a high-performance street motorcycle. It was powered by an innovative 750cc four-stroke inline four-cylinder engine, notable for its five-valve cylinder head design. The FZ750 showcased Yamaha's engineering prowess and technological advancements.

1986

Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America (YMMC) founded in U.S.

Yamaha established the Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America (YMMC) in the United States.

1987

Yamaha automobile racing engine 'OX66' wins first race in All Japan F2 Championship Series

In 1987, Yamaha's racing engine 'OX66' achieved its first victory in the All Japan F2 Championship Series at the All Japan Suzuka Big 2+4 Race. This success highlighted Yamaha's prowess in automotive racing technology.

1988

Yamaha CD Recorder

Yamaha shipped the world's first CD recorder in 1988. Additionally, Yamaha acquired Sequential Circuits in the same year.

1989

Yamaha Motor Company Wins 'PM Excellent Company Award'

In 1989, Yamaha Motor Company was honored with the 'PM Excellent Company Award', recognizing their outstanding performance and contributions in the industry.

1990

Corporate Mission Announcement

In 1990, Yamaha announced their corporate mission of creating 'Kando' which aims to touch people's hearts. They also revealed their long term management vision.

1991

Establishment of Environment Affairs Division

In 1991, Yamaha established an Environment Affairs Division.

1992

Yamaha Constructed America's Cup Challenge Boat 'Nippon'

In 1992, Yamaha constructed the America's Cup challenge boat named 'Nippon'.

1993

Chongqing-Jianshe Yamaha Motorcycle Co., Ltd. (CJYM) Founded in China

In 1993, Chongqing-Jianshe Yamaha Motorcycle Co., Ltd. (CJYM) was established in China as a joint venture to manufacture Yamaha motorcycles.

1994

Takehiko Hasegawa appointed as YMC president

In 1994, Takehiko Hasegawa was appointed as the fourth president of Yamaha Motor Company. His leadership marked a new era for the company.

1995

YMC receives 1995 TPM Special Award

In 1995, Yamaha Motor Company (YMC) received the 1995 TPM Special Award. This recognition highlighted Yamaha's excellence in Total Productive Maintenance practices.

1996

Environment 2000 Plan announced

In 1996, Yamaha announced the 'Environment 2000 Plan' which likely outlined the company's environmental goals and initiatives for the upcoming years.

1997

Yamaha Receives ISO9002 Certification

Yamaha becomes the first domestic manufacturer to receive international ISO9002 certification for motorcycles, snowmobiles, and ATVs.

1998

Yamaha YZF 'R1' 1000cc four cylinder road bike introduced

In 1998, Yamaha marketed the YZF 'R1', a 1000cc four cylinder road bike that introduced a new gearbox design for improved handling. It featured a compact unit and a motor placed further forward in the frame.

1999

Yamaha Motor del Peru S.A. (YMDP) founded

In 1999, Yamaha Motor del Peru S.A. (YMDP) was established in Peru.

2000

Corporate ties with Toyota Motor Co. strengthened

In 2000, Yamaha Motor solidified its corporate relationship with Toyota Motor Co., enhancing collaboration and strategic partnerships.

2001

Toru Hasegawa appointed as fifth YMC president

In 2001, Toru Hasegawa was named the fifth president of Yamaha Motor Corporation (YMC).

2002

Closure of Yamaha's Archery Product Business

In 2002, Yamaha closed its archery product business that had been operating since 1959. Their products were used by gold medal-winning archers in five different Olympic Games.

2003-03-05

Introduction of Vocaloid Singing Synthesizer

Yamaha unveiled the singing synthesizer Vocaloid for the first time at the German fair Musikmesse held from 5th to 9th March 2003.

2004

Start of 'YAMAHA CCS 21 Campaign'

In 2004, Yamaha initiated the 'YAMAHA CCS 21 Campaign', a strategic campaign aimed at achieving specific goals and targets.

2005-03

Termination of System Furniture Production

In March 2005, Yamaha decided to stop selling system furniture, narrowed down its product lineup, and ultimately terminated orders and production of system furniture.

2006

Yamaha Motor Manufacturing West Java Founded in Indonesia

In 2006, Yamaha established the motorcycle manufacturing factory Yamaha Motor Manufacturing West Java (YMMWJ) in Indonesia, expanding its production capabilities to Southeast Asia.

2007

Establishment of Yamaha Motor Philippines, Inc.

In 2007, Yamaha established Yamaha Motor Philippines, Inc. to distribute Yamaha motorcycles in the Philippines, expanding its operations globally.

2008

Yamaha wins MotoGP triple crown

In 2008, Yamaha achieved the MotoGP triple crown by winning the manufacturer, team, and rider championships in the premier motorcycle racing series.

2009

Ben Spies becomes the first Yamaha rider to win a World Superbike

In 2009, Ben Spies made history by becoming the first Yamaha rider to win a World Superbike championship.

2010-09-01

Release of VY1 Vocaloid

Yamaha started the sale and production of Vocaloid applications with the release of VY1, the first in the VY series. The VY series aimed to provide high-quality products for professional musicians, setting a new standard for Vocaloids.

2011

Increased manufacturing of Japanese boats for Great East Japan Earthquake recovery

Following the Great East Japan Earthquake, Yamaha ramped up the production of Japanese boats in 2011 to aid in the recovery efforts.

2012

Collaboration with Toyota Motor Corp. for development of Communications-Linked Next-generation Vehicles

In 2012, Yamaha collaborated with Toyota Motor Corp. to work on the development of Communications-Linked Next-generation Vehicles, aiming to create a new mobility society for the future.

2013-10-01

Change of Company Name for YAMAHA Livingtec (YLT)

As of 1 October 2013, YAMAHA Livingtec (YLT) underwent a management buyout (MBO) of the investments of Yamaha and the investment funds, leading to a change in the company name and a complete withdrawal from the housing equipment business.

2014

Development of 'BLUE CORE' Engines

In 2014, Yamaha Motor developed 'BLUE CORE' next-generation compact, high-performance engines.

2015

Yamaha Motor Jubilo's Rugby Championship Win

In 2015, Yamaha Motor Jubilo team won its first All-Japan Rugby Football Championship.

2016

Cumulative production of Yamaha Performance Dampers surpasses 1 million units

In 2016, Yamaha achieved a milestone by producing over 1 million units of Yamaha Performance Dampers.

2017-10

Yamaha acquires Subaru Industrial Power Products

In October 2017, Yamaha purchased Subaru Industrial Power Products, a small engine maker whose engines powered lawnmowers, generators, and water pumps. The engines have been rebranded as Yamaha.

2018-09-13

Establishment of Yamaha Motor Company

On September 13, 2018, Yamaha Motor Company was established. It marked the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the company, known for its innovative and high-quality motor products.

2019

Established consortium for interchangeable batteries for electric motorcycles

In 2019, Yamaha established a consortium to collaborate on the development of interchangeable batteries for electric motorcycles.

2020-05-11

From pianos and reed organs to premium motorcycles – Part I

The Yamaha Motor Co. logo, a stylized trio of interlocking tuning forks, reflects the company's origins in manufacturing musical instruments such as pianos and reed organs. Today, Yamaha is a leading manufacturer of motorcycles, outboard motors, and other products, while still maintaining a significant presence in the musical instrument industry.

2021

Fabio Quartararo Crowned MotoGP World Champion

In 2021, Fabio Quartararo was crowned the MotoGP World Champion.

2022

Yamaha's MotoGP and World Superbikes lineup for 2022

Yamaha's 2022 MotoGP lineup featured Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli, while their World Superbikes team included Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and Andrea Locatelli, setting the stage for a competitive season.

2023

Acquisition of Córdoba Music Group, LLC

In 2023, Yamaha acquired Córdoba Music Group, LLC.

2024-03

Yamaha joins Formula E as powertrain supplier

In March 2024, Yamaha announced its entry into Formula E as a powertrain supplier in partnership with Lola Cars, marking a new venture for the company.

2024-04

Lola-Yamaha secures Abt Cupra Formula E Team as powertrain customer

A month after joining Formula E, Lola-Yamaha secured Abt Cupra Formula E Team as its first powertrain customer for the upcoming season, solidifying its presence in the electric racing series.

End of the Timeline
Yamaha Motor Company