Yamaha Motor has been commissioned by IHI Power Systems to develop a prototype of an electric motor unit that will achieve the industry’s highest class output density for Z-type tugboat propulsion equipment. Since 2020, Yamaha Motor has been accepting commissions for developing prototype electric motors for automobiles and other mobility applications, but this marks the first time for the Company to develop an electric motor for a Z-drive marine propulsion unit meant for marine tugboats.
Utilizing this electric motor for the electric propulsion system IHI Power Systems is currently developing will not only result in a propulsion system more efficient than ones using conventional internal combustion engines but also reduce the environmental footprint overall. For trial development contracts, Yamaha Motor will utilize production technology and trial production facilities centered on casting, processing, and assembly, etc. that have flexibly supported a wide range of products including motorcycles, and further develop prototype motors in a short period of time according to customer requirements.
