How Yuasa Battery sets the standard for powersports battery solutions
President and CEO of Yuasa Battery (Yuasa), Ryo Okubo outlines the company’s long history: “The business has been at the forefront of battery technology innovation since its founding in 1918 in Japan, providing high-quality battery solutions to various industries worldwide. Since 1979, we’ve been manufacturing high-performance batteries for powersports, including motorsports, in the United States. Our batteries are renowned among powersports enthusiasts for their exceptional reliability and durability. Over the years, we have conducted extensive research and development to ensure that our powersports batteries deliver stable performance even in the harshest conditions.”
Ryo then elaborates on the range of products and services that Yuasa offers: “We have a wide range of high-quality batteries for various applications, including
motorcycles, ATVs (all-terrain vehicles), UTVs (utility task vehicles), snowmobiles, and personal watercraft. Particularly for powersports batteries, we offer a diverse lineup. These series are designed to meet the specific requirements of different vehicles and boast high starting performance, long life, and stable operation under harsh conditions. For example, the YTX series is ideal for customers seeking high performance for sports bikes and ATVs. The YTZ series is lightweight and high-output, making it a popular choice for racing bikes and off-road motorcycles. To provide our customers with peace of mind, our specialized staff also offer battery condition diagnosis and replacement services.
“If I were to highlight one particular product from our extensive range, it would be the GYZ series AGM battery. This series is designed for customers who demand the highest performance from their powersports batteries. The GYZ series, which is only made in the US, offers an exceptional combination of high starting power and long life, ensuring stable performance even in the harshest conditions. Its high amp-hour capacity enables it to handle extended rides and multiple accessory usage without issue. Additionally, by employing Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) technology, it eliminates the risk of leakage and is maintenance-free. The GYZ series also features large flush-mounted terminals capable of handling high currents, allowing for the connection of multiple accessories and providing stable power even under heavy loads. It is widely compatible with various powersports vehicles, including American V-twins, metric motorcycles, ATVs, and UTVs. This makes it particularly well-suited for riders who frequently engage in long-distance touring or off-road riding.”
Ryo then sheds some light on investments the company is making to improve efficiency on the manufacturing side of the business: “To enhance productivity and ensure consistent product quality, we have been actively investing in new equipment. Besides improving product quality and increasing productivity, we are also aiming to reduce our environmental impact and enhance workplace safety.
“Rather than simply investing in equipment, we take a comprehensive approach by carefully selecting and implementing equipment that optimizes quality, environmental sustainability, and worker safety. We are dedicated to constructing a state-of-the-art production system that will consistently deliver high-quality products to our customers.”
Dedicated to quality
Research and development play a crucial role in crafting innovative solutions. Ryo elaborates on the company’s strategy: “We collaborate closely with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to synchronize our battery technology progress with vehicle advancements. Through exhibitions, surveys, and various channels, we consistently track market trends and customer requirements. We listen to the challenges our customers encounter and implement this into our product development procedures.
“To remain at the forefront of battery technology, we collaborate with our parent company, GS Yuasa, a market leading battery company based in Japan. Through this collaboration, our goal is to create safer and higher-performance batteries that surpass our customers’ expectations. For instance, when working on the GYZ series, we integrated new technologies informed by customer feedback, leading to a more robust and powerful battery.”
Ryo elaborates on how company culture supports these initiatives: “Our culture revolves around a dedication to quality. Each employee is committed to delivering products that go beyond our customers’ expectations. We foster open communication and teamwork across all departments. Understanding our customers’ needs is a top priority. Additionally, we invest in our employees’ development through training programs, certifications, and other growth opportunities. These actions create an environment where employees feel valued and motivated to do their best work. Ultimately, this fosters enhanced innovation, superior product quality, and heightened customer satisfaction.”
Looking ahead, Ryo outlines the company’s priorities for the upcoming year and beyond: “Our main focus for 2025 is to sustain the delivery of high-quality, high-performance products to our customers in a timely manner. Additionally, we will continue to invest in research and development to craft innovative products that cater to our customers’ evolving needs. We also plan to enhance our manufacturing capacities to address rising demand and improve delivery times.
“In the longer term we would like to see a future where powersports become even more accessible and enjoyable, enhancing people’s quality of life across the world. Our goal is to be at the forefront of the powersports industry, empowering people to experience the thrill and excitement of riding.”
Ryo concludes with a tribute to the people who have made excellence possible: “Our most valuable assets are our employees and our suppliers. Without them, Yuasa would not be where we are at today, the number one powersports battery manufacturer in the US.”