Garmin announces collaboration with Kawasaki on all-new RIDGE side x sides

Rhea-AI Summary

Garmin (GRMN) has been selected by Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., to provide a customized, factory-installed display solution for the all-new 2024 Kawasaki RIDGE® Limited side x sides. The display will incorporate Garmin technology for seamless navigation and vehicle systems information, built to withstand off-road adventures. The announcement was made by Garmin's vice president of global consumer sales, Dan Bartel, and Bob O'Brien, Director of Marketing at Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

Positive

• Garmin (GRMN) has secured a partnership with Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., showcasing the company's ability to provide cutting-edge technology for off-road adventures.
• The display will feature an 8-inch ultrabright display with turn-by-turn trail navigation, topographic maps, and Group Ride Radio features, promising a superior off-road experience for Kawasaki RIDGE® Limited side x side riders.

Negative

• None.

Insights

Market Research Analyst

Garmin's collaboration with Kawasaki to integrate its navigation technology into the new 2024 Kawasaki RIDGE Limited side x sides represents a strategic move to enhance Garmin's presence in the powersports market. This partnership leverages Garmin's expertise in GPS and navigation systems, potentially expanding its customer base and diversifying its product usage scenarios. The integration of advanced technology into off-road vehicles aligns with current consumer trends that favor high-tech features and connectivity in automotive products.

From a market perspective, this collaboration could lead to increased sales for Garmin as the technology becomes a standard feature in premium off-road vehicles. It also opens avenues for further partnerships with other automotive manufacturers, possibly leading to a broader adoption of Garmin technology in the sector. The move may be seen positively by investors as it demonstrates Garmin's ability to innovate and penetrate new markets, potentially leading to revenue growth and increased market share.

Financial Analyst

The announcement of Garmin's technology being incorporated into Kawasaki's premium side x sides could have a positive impact on Garmin's financial performance. As a factory-installed feature in the Kawasaki RIDGE Limited, this display solution could become a significant value-add for consumers, potentially driving up the average sale price of the vehicles and, by extension, the licensing revenue for Garmin.

Investors should monitor the uptake of the new Kawasaki RIDGE Limited as it could serve as an indicator of the potential revenue stream from this partnership. Furthermore, the durability and specialized features of the Garmin display, such as the glove-friendly interface and preloaded maps, cater to a niche market, which could command a premium price point and higher margins. The long-term implications include possible market expansion and increased brand loyalty among off-road enthusiasts, contributing to Garmin's overall financial health.

Technology Industry Analyst

The integration of Garmin's display technology into Kawasaki's new side x side is indicative of the increasing importance of technology in the powersports industry. The specialized features such as the ultrabright display, turn-by-turn navigation and vehicle system information cater to the unique needs of off-road vehicle users. This not only enhances the user experience but also sets a new standard for competitors in the market.

By incorporating OpenStreetMap and USFS Motor Vehicle Use Maps, Garmin is addressing the specific requirements of the off-road navigation market. The ability to withstand harsh conditions suggests a focus on durability and reliability, key selling points for off-road enthusiasts. This technology integration may prompt competitors to follow suit, potentially leading to a technology race in the powersports segment. Stakeholders should consider the implications of increased R&D costs against the backdrop of consumer demand for high-tech features in off-road vehicles.

Garmin-powered, innovative 8-inch display solution to be incorporated into premium performance side x sides

OLATHE, Kan., Jan. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Garmin (NYSE: GRMN) announced today that it has been selected by Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., to provide a customized, factory-installed solution for the center console of the all-new 2024 Kawasaki RIDGE^® Limited side x sides. Incorporating Garmin technology seen in the popular Tread^® navigator series, this display will help guide the adventure by providing seamless navigation and vehicle systems information, such as engine data, alerts, rider settings and more. The device is also built to withstand the rigors of an off-road adventure. 

"It's an honor to build on our relationship with Kawasaki and provide their customers with our state-of-the-art displays that combine cutting-edge technology and reliability. We're confident that Kawasaki customers will appreciate having our rugged display powered by Garmin technology, to give them a superior off-road experience." – Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales

Designed to elevate the off-road experience for powersports enthusiasts, the new Kawasaki RIDGE side x side is engineered with premium components and luxurious cabin features, promising unparalleled comfort and versatility for riders navigating rugged trails, as well as those undertaking essential tasks on their properties.

"The all-new Kawasaki RIDGE raises the side x side standard to an entirely new height with advanced performance and automotive-inspired features. Including the Garmin technology in the cabin provides our customers with premium navigation and interactivity that is second to none and we're excited to include such reputable technology direct from Kawasaki." – Bob O'Brien, Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. Director of Marketing

The display units feature a glove-friendly, 8" ultrabright display with turn-by-turn trail navigation¹ that includes OpenStreetMap (OSM) and USFS Motor Vehicle Use Maps for traversing unpaved roads and trails. It comes preloaded with topographic maps, U.S. public and private landowner information and satellite Imagery. Adventure-seekers can also track and keep in touch with friends on the trail through Group Ride Radio features. The integrated displays also provide vehicle information such as RPM, engine temperature, battery voltage, CVT temperature and more.

To learn more about Garmin's full line of off-road and powersport products, visit garmin.com/tread, and to learn more about the Garmin-equipped Kawasaki RIDGE, visit Kawasaki.com.

Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for adventurers, athletes, off-road explorers, road warriors and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing products that enhance experiences, enrich lives and help provide peace of mind, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday. Visit the Garmin Newsroom, email our media team, connect with @garminoutdoor on social, or follow our blog.

1 Limitations may exist in map data for some road and trail route suggestions. Always defer to all posted road signs and conditions during vehicle operation. The Garmin OpenStreetMap products are intended to be used only as a supplementary travel aid.

About Garmin International, Inc.
Garmin International, Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN). Garmin Ltd.is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Garmin and Tread are registered trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

About Kawasaki
Kawasaki started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and Kawasaki's entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by the company's constant effort to develop new technologies. Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. is committed to maintaining and furthering these strengths which will surely give birth to new legends.

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, side x sides, and JET SKI® watercraft through a network of approximately 1,100 independent retailers, with close to an additional 7,700 retailers specializing in general purpose engines. Kawasaki and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with approximately 260 of them located at Kawasaki's Foothill Ranch, California headquarters. Kawasaki's tagline, "Let the Good Times Roll.^®", is recognized worldwide. The Kawasaki brand is synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles. Information about Kawasaki's complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at Kawasaki.com.

Notice on Forward-Looking Statements:
This release includes forward-looking statements regarding Garmin Ltd. and its business. Such statements are based on management's current expectations. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this release may not occur and actual results could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting Garmin, including, but not limited to, the risk factors listed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, filed by Garmin with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Commission file number 0-31983). A copy of such Form 10-K is available at www.garmin.com/en-US/company/investors/earnings/. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Garmin undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Contact
Mike Cummings & Griffin Schaetzle
Garmin International, Inc.
Phone | 913-397-8200
E-Mail | media.relations@garmin.com

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SOURCE Garmin International, Inc.

FAQ

What is the partnership between Garmin and Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. about?

Garmin (GRMN) will provide a customized, factory-installed display solution for the all-new 2024 Kawasaki RIDGE® Limited side x sides, incorporating Garmin technology for seamless navigation and vehicle systems information.

What features will the display offer for off-road adventures?

The display will feature an 8-inch ultrabright display with turn-by-turn trail navigation, topographic maps, U.S. public and private landowner information, satellite imagery, and Group Ride Radio features.

Who made the announcement about the partnership?

The announcement was made by Garmin's vice president of global consumer sales, Dan Bartel, and Bob O'Brien, Director of Marketing at Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.