Yamaha Unveils New Helm Master® EX Wireless Control System During 2025 Miami International Boat Show®

Tests Viability of Hydrogen-Powered Outboard on the Water at Test Facility

MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Yamaha Marine U.S. Business Unit announced today an all-new Wireless Control feature for the renowned Helm Master EX boat control system during the 2025 Miami International Boat Show^®. Putting unmatched convenience and control in the palm of boaters’ hands, the new Helm Master EX Wireless Control gives boat operators the freedom to move around the boat while remaining in complete control at all times.*

“This innovative feature of Helm Master EX has the ability to transform the boating experience with precision, automation and smart functionality,” said Ben Speciale, President, Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit. “In a nutshell, the new Wireless Control gives captains the opportunity to make the most of their time on the water.”

Yamaha also shared the latest updates about the on-water testing progress of the industry’s first hydrogen-powered outboard, introduced during the 2024 Miami International Boat Show^®.

“Our hydrogen outboard concept is on the water now, and we’re learning more about how to optimize its performance every day,” Speciale continued. “We believe a multiple technology solution is the best way to achieve cleaner products on the water, and hydrogen represents one of those pathways within our product line. We’re optimistic about the future of hydrogen in the marine industry, and we look forward to sharing specific performance data as it becomes available in the coming months.”

Helm Master EX Wireless Control

Available in single through quint configurations, the new Yamaha Wireless Control System includes all Helm Master EX joystick functionality, autopilot control and man overboard functions for both captains and passengers.

Single-handed operation is possible thanks to the added fingertip button. The all-new Helm Master EX Wireless Control System gives captains the advantage of maintaining full Joystick boat control while also freeing up one hand for tossing lines or adjusting fenders. Boat captains can monitor depth, heading and speed all in the palm of their hands. This is especially handy underway when monitoring course while using the autopilot functions.

Included with this handheld control system is an integrated man overboard (MOB) system. A passenger or captain falling overboard will trigger the boat to decelerate to a stop in idle or immediately turn off the engines depending on the situation. The system includes one Captain and one passenger fob and will support up to eight MOB fobs all equipped with a wristband or lanyard to help keep track of the entire crew onboard.

With access to the Helm Master EX Autopilot functionality, the new Wireless Control System allows captains to set heading and course, making adjustments on the fly as needed. StayPoint^®, FishPoint^®, and DriftPoint^® are also at a captain’s fingertips whether they are at the bow on lookout, watching from the flybridge, or in the middle of the action at the stern.

During anchoring, captains can operate the engine controls from the Wireless Control System. The new Wireless Control System is also buoyant, making it easy to retrieve should it fall overboard.

Though the wireless controller is designed for eight hours of use, for greater convenience and a more customized boating experience, boaters can charge the new Wireless Control System with a charging cradle that can be placed anywhere on the boat.

Available for dealer installation in Fall 2025, the HMEX Control can be added to any HMEX that is updated to the newest HMEX software version.

Yamaha’s H2 Outboard – On the Water

Built on Yamaha’s 450-horsepower XTO Offshore^® platform, Yamaha’s H2 outboard (the world’s first hydrogen-powered outboard for recreational boats) fuel system (developed by Roush) and boat (developed by Regulator Marine) are currently undergoing testing at Yamaha’s facility in Bridgeport, Alabama. Yamaha’s engineers are working now to optimize performance metrics on the water. New running footage of the H2 outboard in action is available here.

The H2 outboard is part of Yamaha’s strategy to achieve carbon neutrality: deploying multiple technology solutions. Yamaha has a long-standing commitment to exploring innovative and sustainable technologies, including hydrogen as a potential fuel source. The company's interest in hydrogen technology began in 2003 with early research into alternative energy solutions aimed at reducing environmental impact. Over the years, Yamaha collaborated with various partners to develop hydrogen-powered engines. By exploring hydrogen as a clean and renewable energy source, Yamaha is advancing environmental goals while maintaining performance and reliability.

The pursuit of hydrogen technology is just one example of Yamaha’s suite of multiple technology solutions to reduce carbon. In early 2024, Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. acquired electric marine propulsion leader Torqeedo GmbH, expanding Yamaha's capabilities in electric and hybrid power. In addition, Yamaha is also actively researching and promoting the use of sustainable marine fuels as part of ongoing efforts toward carbon neutrality across the industry.

Yamaha Marine products are marketed throughout the United States and around the world. Yamaha Marine Engine Systems, based in Kennesaw, Ga., supports its 2,000 U.S. dealers and boat builders with marketing, training and parts for Yamaha’s full line of products and strives to be the industry leader in reliability, technology and customer service. Yamaha Marine is the only outboard brand to have earned NMMA^®’s C.S.I. Customer Satisfaction Index award every year since its inception. Visit www.yamahaoutboards.com.

*Captains must always be vigilant. Operation of the new Wireless Control System should only take place while onboard for safety.

This document contains many of Yamaha's valuable trademarks. It may also contain trademarks belonging to other companies. Any references to other companies or their products are for identification purposes only and are not intended to be an endorsement.

REMEMBER to always observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and drive. Dress properly with a USCG-approved personal floatation device and protective gear.

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