Yamaha Tightens Its Strength

Yamaha itself has proved an 'Exclusive and Trusted' manufacturer of top quality motorcycles. Riding high on the success of four new launches across different categories,Yamaha Motors India has this year strengthened its foothold. Yamaha said it has approached its task of rebuilding the company in India in a very systematic and planned manner, focusing on quality, design, technology and innovation.

"The year 2008 has been a turnaround year for Yamaha. We have made efforts to replicate Yamaha's global brand image by launching two new models - YZF-R15 and FZ16. These models have received raving reviews from automotive experts and have helped us achieve higher sales as against last year," said Yukimine Tsuji, CEO and MD, India Yamaha Motor.

"The year 2009 is going to be a crucial one for Yamaha as we shift gears and move into a high growth trajectory. We are aware that these are challenging times for the industry as the economy passes through a slowdown. However, we are confident of grasping customers mind, attention and share of the wallet with our technologically superior products whose quality matches those produced in our factories in Europe, Japan & the US," Tsuji added.

Even as the automobile industry was slow down by negative growth, Yamaha sold 136,468 bikes in 2008 which is 13.3% more than last year. The company has received remarkable response to its new bikes - R15, FZ 16, Gladiator SS and RS, in their respective segments. In December 2008, Yamaha sold 16,000 units which is 190% more compared to December 2007.
Yamaha bikes have kept up their growth momentum despite the scarcity of auto loans and unwillingness of banks to extend loans to prospective buyers. Further, the company plans to infuse the synergies of branded showrooms into its existing dealer network in a phased manner both in terms of appeal and experience. Yamaha has five company-owned outlets in Delhi, Mumbai, Pune and Kolkata. Out of the total Yamaha bikes sold in the country, 15% are financed through Busan Auto Finance.