This week, Yamaha Marine Precision Propellers initiated construction on a new manufacturing facility in Indiana that has the potential to boost propeller output by over 40,000 units annually. This development coincides with a surge in outboard sales for the Japanese manufacturer.
Officials indicated that the construction of the new production site in Greenfield, Indiana, is expected to be finished by mid-2020, as announced during a dedication ceremony on July 8. The new manufacturing space will span 54,000 square feet on a 5-acre section of the 28-acre property.
Yamaha recently launched three new even-pitch propellers as part of the XTO OS series.
“This marks the largest expansion we have ever experienced at Yamaha Marine Precision Propellers,” stated Jonathon Burns, general manager of YPPI, in a press release. “YPPI anticipates the growth of our workforce with a robust talent pool in manufacturing. We take pride in actively participating in the community’s growth and are eager to demonstrate our offerings through innovative technology and as a preferred employer.”
Yamaha announced that the company plans to create 30 jobs once the manufacturing facility is operational. The new propeller plant, along with an existing facility in Indianapolis, will employ over 200 individuals, according to officials.
Production capacity for propellers is expected to rise from 60,000 to more than 100,000, reflecting a 67 percent increase in overall manufacturing output. Burns emphasized that the expansion aligns with Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit’s mission to lead in component and system integrations for an enhanced boating experience.
“Propellers are a crucial part of today’s integrated boat systems,” Burns remarked. “This facility will enable us to expand our offerings to customers and will also facilitate the testing of newer, more efficient manufacturing technologies that can enhance quality and lower costs.”
The groundbreaking for the new production facility occurred just one week after Yamaha introduced three new propellers aimed at optimizing the V8 XTO Offshore outboard’s performance. Yamaha has launched 18-, 20-, and 22-inch pitch versions of the XTO OS propeller.
XTO OS propellers feature a large diameter and uniquely designed blade surface area, making them ideal for larger boats. Combined with the XTO Offshore engine, the XTO OS propeller can deliver up to 300 percent more reverse thrust compared to the earlier F350 model.
The newly developed even-pitch XTO OS propellers are now available for purchase.