TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Toyota Motor Corp. on Tuesday announced the launch of its first leisure boat in six years, equipped with two 4.5-liter diesel engines based on its Land Cruiser sport utility vehicle to ensure high output and reduce emissions.
The craft is the first in the company's Ponam series and more vessels are in the works, the major automaker said. Last year, the company ranked third in the Japanese market for medium-size and large boats, measuring at least 8 meters in length.
The company applied its automotive know-how to allow computer control of the boat's two main propellers and an auxiliary one in the bow thruster. The boat, called the Ponam-35, can be maneuvered easily as a single joystick is used to moor and cast off.
It can accommodate 12 people and is 11.95 meters long. The cabin interior is fitted with a five-seat sofa, according to the company.
The suggested retail price is 59.01 million yen. Annual sales are targeted at 15 units.
Toyota is considering selling the boat in China as well.
