To commemorate the 40th anniversary of the release of the Yamaha Wave Runner, FX JAPAN LIMITED was released exclusively in Japan.
We asked Kaori Inoue, a development member, to talk about how the special model unique to Japan was created and the commitment and thoughts that went into it.
Kaori Inoue
Yamaha Motor WV Development Department WV Function Development G
A member of the development of FX JAPAN LIMITED. Since 2019, he has been involved in advanced design development centered on CMFG (Color-Material-Finish-Graphic) in the marine division. Most recently, he was in charge of design, modeling, and production development of engine covers for 1.9L HO engines using cellulose nanofibers.
The reason for the release of the Japan-limited model
――What kind of work do you usually do?
WV Development Department I belong to the WV Function Development Group, where I research, analyze, and evaluate leading items and trends.
――Did you decide from the beginning of development to release a 40th anniversary model exclusively in Japan apart from overseas models?
There was a concept around 2023, and it was decided around that time. One of the reasons for developing the Japan-only model was that we wanted to meet the unique characteristics and needs of Japan, and we wanted to realize designs, materials, and finishes that are difficult to achieve in a precise manufacturing environment unique to Japan.
――Has there ever been a Japan-limited model released?
In 2003, the Tigers version of the MJ-SJ 700 was released. In 2006, the MJ-SuperJet RIUS RACING Limited Edition was sold only in Japan.
――This is the first Japan-only model of Runabout. Why did you choose FX Limited SVHO as your base?
One of the reasons was that we wanted to create a commemorative model on the best platform, worthy of the pinnacle of waverunners. In order to realize the commitment to the special model to be made on the 40th anniversary, FX, which has a wide range of expressions and has a margin of space, shape, material, and layout, was the most suitable.
A special design that tickles the desire to own
――What did you keep in mind when developing the 40th anniversary model?
Because it is a special milestone of the 40th anniversary, we have incorporated the 40-year history of Waverunner into the detailed design, so that you can feel the “commemorative model-likeness” that is different from other models through its appearance and texture. In terms of functionality, it already boasts a high degree of perfection, so this time we are focusing on emotional values such as “joy of ownership” and “special feeling”.
――Please tell us more about the design concept of “RED DNA”.
In a word, it is “the trajectory of a brand that has matured over 40 years”. The “red” identity inherited from the first model, the MJ-500T, has been modernly evolved and incorporated into a design that symbolically expresses 40 years of history and brand spirit.
――As a result, the original burgundy color “Sparkling Crimson” was born.
Rather than using the red color that symbolized the MJ-500T as it is, it deepens it into a “deep red that seems to have matured over a 40-year history” to express respect for the past and the maturity of the brand. It uses Yamaha’s original paint, which is the only one in the world developed specifically for this model, and the naming is unique to Japan. It has a deep red color that has matured and means “luster that changes its expression depending on how the light hits it = sparkle”.
A model that embodies 40 years of history
――Please tell us about the most difficult part of development.
The most difficult thing was to match the color of the paint color (burgundy) with different materials from different manufacturers. After many prototypes and adjustments, we have achieved an ideal sense of unity. It also took time to balance the aesthetics and durability of the gold with the special processing of the bolts. Every detail is carefully verified to ensure quality that can withstand prolonged use while maintaining a luxurious finish.
――In addition to the coloring, are there any other parts that you were conscious of inheriting from the first model?
Is it the strobe/block pattern or the red stitching on the seat at that time? The block pattern decal uses a transparent base material, making it difficult to notice the boundary between the pasting surface and the pasting surface.
――What is your personal favorite about this model?
I have a lot of feelings for various parts, but I like the design of “1986-2026” engraved on the boarding steps.
――What part do you want users to see in particular?
I would be happy if you could feel the precision of Japanese manufacturing and the 40-year story that Waverunner has walked, not just somewhere. Not only is it exhilarating on the water, but I think it gave me a sense of pride when I put it in the garage and a presence that makes my heart beat just by looking at it.
Yamaha Motor
https://www.yamaha-motor.co.jp/marine/
Like this:
Like Loading…
