Yamaha Motor Co ., Ltd . announced the recent conclusion of a stock purchase agreement with Germany ’ s DEUTZ AG , which owns marine electric propulsion manufacturer Torqeedo , to acquire all of Torqeedo ’ s shares . The intended acquisition of Torqeedo , which is subject to clearances , permits , etc ., required by competition laws and other regulations , further supports Yamaha ’ s strategy to implement a multiple technology approach to achieve carbon neutrality .

Torqeedo is a pioneer in the field of electric marine propulsion and offers a wide-ranging line of products , from electric outboard and inboard motors to batteries and various other accessories . It also holds many patents related to electric motors , propellers , and electric systems , as well as the R & D capabilities , mass-production equipment , and development resources for next-generation environmental technologies .

“ Yamaha ’ s acquisition of Torqeedo supports the current Mid-Term Plan and helps to accelerate the company ’ s efforts toward achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 . That goal within the marine market can only be reached through an approach leveraging a variety of solutions , one of which is electric propulsion ,” said Ben Speciale , president , Yamaha U . S . Marine Business Unit . “ Through the relationship with Torqeedo , Yamaha will have the ability to fast-track the establishment of a small electric propulsion lineup , complimenting the company ’ s efforts with hydrogen and sustainable fuels as additional means of reducing the carbon footprint on the water . Furthermore , the pending acquisition supports Yamaha Marine ’ s CASE strategy , which helps Yamaha deliver high-value ,

innovative products to customers while promoting marine conservation and sustainability .”

ABYC sets dates for 2024 Marine Service Technician Week

The American Boat & Yacht Council ( ABYC ) announced the third annual “ International Marine Service Technician Week ,” scheduled for April 22-26 , 2024 . The week is dedicated to recognizing the exceptional skills and commitment of marine service professionals .

“ This is an excellent opportunity for the boating community to show appreciation for the technicians who keep boating safe , reliable , and enjoyable ,” stated Shannon Aronson , marketing director at ABYC . “ Seeing businesses celebrate their team with photo sharing , special recognitions , and events for staff is not only inspiring but also a great way to highlight the importance and appeal of this career path .”

Throughout the week , ABYC plans to spotlight technicians and organizations on social media , conduct daily technical challenges with prize rewards and provide online educational opportunities . Additionally , ABYC will present the “ Outstanding Technician Awards ,” accepting nominations for five winners to receive VISA gift cards and other prizes .

“ We invite businesses and boaters to participate and celebrate the invaluable contributions of marine service professionals ,” said Aronson . For participation ideas and to see examples from past events , visit www . abycinc . org / page / thankyoutechs .

NTP-STAG , SeaWide celebrate successful EXPO 2024

The new EXPO 2024 , presented by Airxcel , took place on January 15-16 , 2024 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee , Florida . The annual event , curated by NTP-STAG alongside SeaWide Marine Distribution , brought together the RV and marine aftermarkets , delivering an experience for industry professionals .

This year ’ s EXPO marked the first-time collaboration with SeaWide Distribution , introducing prominent marine suppliers alongside the RV industry ’ s premier product manufacturers . “ Bringing EXPO to Kissimmee for the first time provided us with a tremendous opportunity to produce an event that aligns these exciting outdoor recreational activities in one fantastic location in Central Florida ,” said SeaWide president , Bill Rogers . “ The setting offered the ideal backdrop for showcasing the energy of EXPO with its atmosphere of innovation , education and connection .”

EXPO 2024 kicked off with a thought-provoking talk by Sterling Hawkins , founder of the # nomatterwhat movement and author of the best-selling book ‘ Hunting Discomfort .’ Sponsored by PRO suppliers , Hawkins delved into the inevitability of discomfort in a world disrupted by technology , pandemic changes , and uncertainty . Attendees gained valuable insights into building resilience and achieving breakthrough growth in the face of adversity . Day one then showcased PRO educational speakers , supplier product

6 february 2024 www . boatingindustry . com