Yamaha Motor to Introduce New Next-Generation HARMO Boat Control System to Japanese Market - Integration with Helm Master(R) EX not only enhances maneuverability and convenience but also broadens compatibility with a wider range of vessels -
March 13, 2025
IWATA, March 13, 2025 - Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced that it will launch the new next-generation HARMO boat control system, which integrates an electric propulsion unit and steering system, for the Japanese market in June 2025. Additionally, the new HARMO will be showcased for the first time in Japan at the Japan International Boat Show 2025 scheduled to be held in Yokohama from March 20 to 23.
The new HARMO was first launched in the European market in the fall of 2024. Retaining the signature quiet operation of electric motors and the high-efficiency electric rim drive propulsion* setup from the previous HARMO, the new model adopts the same mounting method as a conventional outboard motor, broadening its compatibility. Furthermore, the model is now integrated with Yamaha Motor's next-generation, cutting-edge Helm Master(R) EX boat control system. This enables intuitive joystick-based maneuvering as well as additional aids like the SetPoint(TM) and Autopilot(TM) suite of features, enhancing overall convenience.
The Company's new Medium-Term Management Plan (2025-2027) announced this February aims to deliver an enriching marine lifestyle that can be enjoyed by a diverse range of customers by evolving our Marine CASE Strategy into an integrated boat business. By introducing next-generation boat maneuvering systems and utilizing connected technologies, we aim to expand customer value by enabling diverse boating experiences.
*Rim-drive propulsion: A system of driving the propeller by a motor mounted on the rim (edge) of the propeller blade.
Background to Introduction
HARMO is a next-generation boat control system platform consisting of an electric propulsion unit and a remote control box for operational control. It was developed with the goal of providing a smart package boat that allows passengers to enjoy a more pleasant and comfortable experience. In the spring of 2022, the first-generation HARMO was launched in the European market. At the same time, real-world tests were conducted in Japan on slow, sightseeing cruise boats in cities like Otaru and Tokushima, accumulating knowledge under relaxed cruising conditions while examining the possibilities for a domestic launch.
The new HARMO set for introduction into the Japanese market has been enhanced to reflect the insights into market needs gained from the tests that were carried out. Furthermore, it is equipped with highly convenient features for cruising, and together with its improved mounting compatibility, the new model is expected to find greater use not only for commercial purposes with sightseeing boats and the like but also with general recreational use.
Main Features
●Improved Maneuverability and Convenience with Helm Master(R) EX Integration
Adopts Helm Master(R) EX, Yamaha Motor's latest proprietary boat maneuvering control system, which enables intuitive joystick-based maneuvering, making operations like docking easier. Also equipped with various features such as SetPoint(TM) and Autopilot(TM), expanding its usability for general recreational use.
●Compatible with a Wide Range of Boats
Uses a bracket-style mounting method similar to conventional outboard motors, allowing installation on a greater variety of boats and improving overall compatibility.
●Smooth, Digitally Controlled Steering
Similar to the first-generation HARMO, this new model features a wide 70° rudder angle on both sides, offering excellent maneuverability and on-the-spot rotation, making navigation in confined areas easier.
●Exceptionally Quiet
Like the first-generation HARMO, it features a rim drive propulsion method that delivers high thrust even at low speeds. At the same time, it ensures an ultra-quiet experience, allowing passengers to enjoy conversations effortlessly while also taking in the gentle sounds of the wind and water.
The new HARMO was first launched in the European market in the fall of 2024. Retaining the signature quiet operation of electric motors and the high-efficiency electric rim drive propulsion* setup from the previous HARMO, the new model adopts the same mounting method as a conventional outboard motor, broadening its compatibility. Furthermore, the model is now integrated with Yamaha Motor's next-generation, cutting-edge Helm Master(R) EX boat control system. This enables intuitive joystick-based maneuvering as well as additional aids like the SetPoint(TM) and Autopilot(TM) suite of features, enhancing overall convenience.
The Company's new Medium-Term Management Plan (2025-2027) announced this February aims to deliver an enriching marine lifestyle that can be enjoyed by a diverse range of customers by evolving our Marine CASE Strategy into an integrated boat business. By introducing next-generation boat maneuvering systems and utilizing connected technologies, we aim to expand customer value by enabling diverse boating experiences.
*Rim-drive propulsion: A system of driving the propeller by a motor mounted on the rim (edge) of the propeller blade.
New HARMO
Background to Introduction
HARMO is a next-generation boat control system platform consisting of an electric propulsion unit and a remote control box for operational control. It was developed with the goal of providing a smart package boat that allows passengers to enjoy a more pleasant and comfortable experience. In the spring of 2022, the first-generation HARMO was launched in the European market. At the same time, real-world tests were conducted in Japan on slow, sightseeing cruise boats in cities like Otaru and Tokushima, accumulating knowledge under relaxed cruising conditions while examining the possibilities for a domestic launch.
The new HARMO set for introduction into the Japanese market has been enhanced to reflect the insights into market needs gained from the tests that were carried out. Furthermore, it is equipped with highly convenient features for cruising, and together with its improved mounting compatibility, the new model is expected to find greater use not only for commercial purposes with sightseeing boats and the like but also with general recreational use.
Main Features
●Improved Maneuverability and Convenience with Helm Master(R) EX Integration
Adopts Helm Master(R) EX, Yamaha Motor's latest proprietary boat maneuvering control system, which enables intuitive joystick-based maneuvering, making operations like docking easier. Also equipped with various features such as SetPoint(TM) and Autopilot(TM), expanding its usability for general recreational use.
●Compatible with a Wide Range of Boats
Uses a bracket-style mounting method similar to conventional outboard motors, allowing installation on a greater variety of boats and improving overall compatibility.
●Smooth, Digitally Controlled Steering
Similar to the first-generation HARMO, this new model features a wide 70° rudder angle on both sides, offering excellent maneuverability and on-the-spot rotation, making navigation in confined areas easier.
●Exceptionally Quiet
Like the first-generation HARMO, it features a rim drive propulsion method that delivers high thrust even at low speeds. At the same time, it ensures an ultra-quiet experience, allowing passengers to enjoy conversations effortlessly while also taking in the gentle sounds of the wind and water.
Unique rim drive mechanism
Visual representation of the Helm Master(R) EX boat maneuvering system
Boat equipped with the new HARMO
