(May 18, 2011) CYPRESS, Calif. (PRNewswire) — Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A., and Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America announced today that the first production run of new all-terrain vehicle (ATV) models transferred to the U.S. from overseas facilities will take place this month at Yamaha's state-of-the-art factory in Newnan, Ga.

The start of new ATV production in Newnan is a major step forward in the companies' long-term strategy to transfer the majority of Yamaha's worldwide ATV manufacturing to the United States. 

When complete, the production transfer could add 200 or more American jobs at Yamaha's U.S. factory as well as additional jobs at the 125 North American parts supplier companies. The specific ATV models will be announced on June 8 as part of Yamaha's worldwide unveiling of select 2012 model year products.

Yamaha's ATV production transfer, first announced in early 2010, is a long-term strategy that will culminate in bringing the majority of Yamaha's worldwide ATV manufacturing to the U.S. by 2013.  The company has invested more than $250 million into the factory over the past 10 years creating a state-of-the-art facility.

"This production transfer shows Yamaha's commitment to this facility and the U.S. motorsports market — the world's largest ATV market," said Henio Arcangeli Jr., Yamaha Motorsports President. "Manufacturing ATVs in Georgia will allow Yamaha to respond more quickly to its customers' demands while streamlining its supply chain and distribution processes.  It is a strategic move that will benefit the company, employees, dealer partners and customers as well as the local Newnan community and more than 100 U.S. parts supplier businesses."

Yamaha held a press conference at its factory in Newnan today where it announced the production transfer news. Yamaha executives and government officials spoke about the significance of the transfer and Yamaha's manufacturing facility in the U.S. The company also unveiled a new "Assembled in U.S.A." logo to illustrate its pride in U.S. manufacturing.

As one of the largest motorsports companies in the world, Yamaha is a major contributor to the U.S. economy directly employing approximately 2,800 Americans and supporting more than 30,000 additional jobs through its manufacturing facilities, corporate offices, field staff, distribution centers, suppliers and dealer partners. 

Overall, Yamaha has corporate offices, regional offices, factories and distribution centers in nine states including Georgia, California, Wisconsin, Texas, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Illinois, New Jersey and Washington.  The Newnan factory alone spends more than $170 million annually with 137 worldwide suppliers — 125 of which are also based in North America. 

"Yamaha has been in Newnan for more than 20 years, and we feel very lucky to have such a fine world renowned company in our area," said Newnan Mayor Keith Brady.