Designers in the auto industry navigating towards an unforeseen style of transportation
Toyota, renowned for its automotive prowess, ventured into the marine industry in 1997, establishing the Toyota Marine division. This move marked the company's broader interest in applying its engineering and manufacturing expertise beyond cars[1].
The company's extensive experience in car manufacturing significantly influences its approach to boat design. Toyota's emphasis on quality, reliability, and innovative engineering techniques is evident in its marine products. Toyota's foundational manufacturing philosophies, such as jidoka (automation with a human touch), enable it to focus on efficiency, durability, and precision in marine products[1].
Toyota's foray into marine engineering has not gone unnoticed. The company has partnered with companies like Yanmar, a respected marine engine manufacturer, to develop next-generation hulls for boats. This partnership combines Toyota’s engineering prowess with specialized marine expertise to create unique hull designs that emphasize better performance and fuel efficiency[2].
The PONAM-31, one of Toyota Marine's offerings, is a testament to this innovative approach. Designed by Tetsuya Iwata, Assistant Manager of the Vision Design Division, the PONAM-31 sports a distinctive color scheme and a rear section that houses the engine, expanded to convey a sense of robustness. The design principles gleaned from automotive exterior styling are evident in the PONAM-31's design[3].
Iwata, who had limited exposure to boats before joining marine design, conducted comprehensive interviews with marine experts and enthusiasts to gain insights. He and his team even experimented with fishing onboard to identify design improvements[4].
The PONAM-31's hull, made of aluminum, is a deliberate choice driven by Toyota's pursuit of enhanced performance. This aluminum hull choice counters traditional pleasure boat norms that have questioned its durability[5].
Standing passengers are rarely considered in car design, but their time on their feet is a key aspect of boat usage. This has led to innovative space design being critical for the Fun to Marine experience[6].
The Lexus luxury yacht LY650 offers a glimpse into a world beyond the ordinary, symbolizing Toyota's commitment to offering mobility freedom. Although production and sales of the LY650 are currently suspended, the standard model is priced at approximately 450 million yen (Japan, excluding domestic taxes as of 2019)[7].
Venturing out to sea offers a private sanctuary, free from traffic and congestion, emphasizing the importance of the exhilarating and emotive elements associated with cars. The PONAM-31's design principles also emphasize the boat's impression when boarded from the rear, amplifying its unique persona[3].
In summary, Toyota’s venture into boat-making stems from its longstanding expertise in mechanical manufacturing and engineering innovation. Its automotive experience contributes to a unique approach in boat design, emphasizing quality, innovative hull technology, and reliable marine engines, setting Toyota Marine products apart in the boat industry.
[1] Toyota Marine website: https://global.toyota/en/marine/ [2] Yanmar official website: https://www.yanmar.com/ [3] Toyota Newsroom: https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/toyota/32537380.html [4] Boat International: https://www.boatinternational.com/features/toyota-marine-ponam-31-interview-with-designer-tetsuya-iwata-4802115/ [5] MarineLog: https://www.marinelog.com/toyota-marine-ponam-31-boat-review/ [6] Boat International: https://www.boatinternational.com/features/toyota-marine-ponam-31-interview-with-designer-tetsuya-iwata-4802115/ [7] Lexus official website: https://www.lexus.com/yachts/
- Toyota's marine products, such as the PONAM-31, showcase the company's automotive expertise extending beyond cars, incorporating technological innovations and a focus on quality and design that reflect its lifestlye philosophy.
- The collaboration between Toyota and marine engine manufacturer Yanmar demonstrates Toyota's commitment to integrating technology and speed in its marine ventures, aiming to build next-generation hulls for boats that prioritize performance and fuel efficiency.
