Yamaha Motor Europe is expanding its supply partnership with French boatbuilder Zodiac Nautic, which is focused on rigid inflatable boats (RIBs).
Building on an existing rigging agreement, the two companies have entered into a full collaboration, which will see Zodiac Nautic’s boats EmPowered by Yamaha outboard engines for the next five years.
It’s the second propulsion deal this month for Zodiac, which recently partnered with Flux Marine, a developer of electric outboards and battery systems. The collaboration with Flux Marine will introduce electric propulsion to the brand’s RIBs, debuting the Zodiac Medline 6.8 Electric, which integrates Flux Marine’s FM115 all-electric outboard.
Under the new OEM supply deal with Yamaha Motor Europe, Zodiac Nautic’s inflatables and rigid-hull inflatables will be paired with Yamaha’s outboard engines, control systems and integration features.
Representatives from both companies describe this step as a continuation of their shared history.
Fabrice Lacoume, marine director at Yamaha Motor Europe, says: “Zodiac represents one of the most iconic names in the marine world. Their boats have carried explorers, rescue teams and families for generations, and Yamaha has proudly shared in that journey.
“As two renowned brands in the industry, we share a long-standing partnership and aligned values. We are proud to continue to EmPower Zodiac Nautic’s legacy with Yamaha’s technology, reliability and European support network.”
Zodiac Nautic is approaching its 130th anniversary. At Cannes Yachting Festival, Florent Battistella, CEO of Zodiac Nautic, told MIN that while Zodiac remains committed to tube technology as its core offering, it’s also adapting to market demands through closer relationships with dealers who act as a bridge to end users.
The post Yamaha Motor Europe and Zodiac agree expanded supply deal appeared first on Marine Industry News.
Leave a Reply