Yamaha on Full Throttle at 10th Auto Expo

Unleashes biking blitzkrieg with 2010 model of YZF R1, Special edition of R15 and Two Concept Models namely SZ and YBR

New Delhi, January 5th, 2010: Biking enthusiasts gathered at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, today to get the biggest adrenaline boost with the most exciting and innovative collection of bikes showcased by India Yamaha Motor Pvt. Ltd at the 10th Auto Expo being held from 5th to 11th of January. One of the world’s biggest Auto shows witnessed the new 2010 model of YZF-R1 and the launch of Special White Color Edition of YZF-R15 which are showcased at the Yamaha Stall along with other Yamaha products.

Yamaha is showcasing its state-of-the-art product line including successful premium segment (150cc+) bikes – YZF-R15, Fazer and FZ series. A couple of exciting concept motorcycle models for commuter segment are also being showcased.

The muscle bike VMAX is on display as well as YZR-M1 model that Valentino Rossi, The Doctor rides in MotoGP. Apart from these, Yamaha’s international models – 500cc TMAX sports scooter and 600cc XJ6 motorcycle are also on display. These models are surely a gripping sight to behold at this year’s Auto Expo.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Yukimine Tsuji, CEO, India Yamaha Motor Pvt. Ltd., said, “Auto Expo is a great platform to display our technological prowess. The Indian two-wheeler market is growing rapidly and keeping in sync with the changing demands of the Indian consumer, we are continuously evolving our strategies to serve them better. We have got very good responses for YZF-R15, Fazer and FZ series bikes. We will utilize every opportunity to generate sales in 2010 by taking initiatives which will reinforce the global Yamaha brand image in India and bring us closer to our customers.”

Talking about plans for the year 2010, Mr. Tsuji, said, “We have a sales target of 3 Lakhs this year. Moreover, the company will continue to focus on the 150cc+ segment to achieve a target of 25 % share by the end of year. While we will be further consolidating our position in premium category with the launch of R15 special white color edition in February, commuting segment will also be a focus area.”

Highlighting the brand association with John Abraham, Mr. Tsuji said, “It is a pleasure to have John by our side as he represents the essence of true biking, being a passionate biker himself. He has added a new dimension to our brand image. We are very happy that John is our first VMAX customer in India. We are also pleased to certify him as advisor to India Yamaha Motor to support us achieve our business plan in India.”

The marketing strategy in the New Year will continue to revolve around the “Yes! Yamaha” campaign which is the first step towards giving value to the consumer and to provide the Best 3S Experience (Sales, Service & Spare parts) so that the customer always appreciates Yamaha and accepts the brand like the word “YES”. As part of its Yes! Yamaha campaign, Yamaha has introduced the unique concept of Yamaha Bike Station (YBS), an authorized Yamaha Dealership with the Best 3S facility – Best Showroom, Best Service Facility and Genuine Parts. Yamaha has also planned Service Camps across India along with rural mobile service vans in the year 2010.

Customer Satisfaction has always been the top priority of Yamaha and the company is planning to enhance Yamaha Bike Station numbers to 180 in 2010 (40% of all dealers). Yamaha will also come up with customer-centric events like Yamaha Safety Riding Science to educate the Indian youth and incorporate safe riding culture among them.