Itaru Otani Appointed As Yamaha India’s New Chairman

Yamaha India has a new chairman, and Itaru Otani will oversee the sub-brand’s operations and future product plan from here on. Otani replaced Eishin Chihan, under whose regime Yamaha India launched the YZF-R3 supersport and MT-03 naked streetfighter bikes in the country. Both bikes were brought to India via the CBU route, as a consequence their exorbitant asking price in the country has made it tough to purchase for many. Whether these changes under Otani’s term remains to be seen. 

Either way, Otari’s appointment comes at a very crucial time, especially, when speculations are rife that the Yamaha R7 and MT-07 are on the horizon for a market launch, later followed by the ADV – Tenere 700. On this note, Otani pointed out that, “The aspirations of Indian consumers are evolving rapidly, and we see incredible opportunities to bring in products that blend Yamaha’s global expertise with the unique needs and desires of Indian riders.” 

To that effect, he added, “Our focus will be on promoting exciting, stylish and sporty two-wheelers that not only align with the market’s expectations but also set new benchmarks in design, quality, and innovation. I am looking forward to further strengthen Yamaha in India under ‘The Call of the Blue’ brand campaign and driving forward our long-term vision by unlocking new avenues of growth in one of the world’s most dynamic two-wheeler markets.”

Otani has been with Yamaha for over 30 years and has held various leadership positions across key markets including Australia, Brazil, and Japan. Before coming to India, he served as the Chief General Manager and led the company’s Land Mobility Operations out of Japan. “It’s a privilege to lead Yamaha in a country as vibrant and full of potential as India.,” Otani noted.