Yep. You read it here first. Yamaha is announcing electric bikes, scooters and bicycles in the Tokyo Auto Show. They’re all listed as “Reference Vehicle/Prototype” so your guess is as good as mine, but mine is that some of them are going to see daylight. The specs seem fairly, uh, optimistic, shall we say? But my take is Yamaha, with “More Experience with Two-Wheeled Electric Propulsion than Anyone in the All the World”, is jumping on board.
Let’s see if I can get this right. The syntax is a little tortured from Yamaha, but here goes. The first two:
PES1 (Reference vehicle/prototype)
PED1 (Reference vehicle/prototype)
In addition to the characteristics unique to an electric motor, the Passion within the new riding experience these two EV (electric vehicle) motorcycle concept models offer is clear-cut, and they retain the same operational feeling that current motorcycle riders are used to. The Street sport “PES1” and Dirt sport “PED1” have a power unit (Yamaha Smart Power Module) with a monocoque structure that also functions as the frame. Supplementing the environmental performance inherent to an EV, both models are equipped with features like a transmission with manual and automatic modes, a removable battery for easy replacement and various types of smartphone information service functions.[PES1] Length×Width×Height = 1,918 mm×640 mm×1,000 mmMotor type = DC brushless motor Battery type = Lithium-ionTransmission = Switchable between manual and automatic Vehicle weight = under 100 kg
[PED1] Length×Width×Height = 1,900 mm×758 mm×1,205 mmMotor type = DC brushless motor Battery type = Lithium-ionTransmission = Switchable between manual and automatic Vehicle weight = under 85 kg
The Scoot:
EVINO (Reference vehicle/prototype)
This electric scooter concept model proposes a convenient commuter vehicle with all the necessary functions for short-distance trips while remaining in an affordable price range that makes purchasing easier for consumers. With the “Vino” scooter model popular for its retro-pop styling as a base, this model features environmentally friendly performance supplemented by smooth acceleration from the precisely controlled motor and optimized front-rear weight balance to ensure excellent handling performance even at low speeds. Also, consideration for recharging the vehicle is present with the removable battery and built-in regenerative charging system.Length×Width×Height = 1,675 mm×645 mm×1,005 mm Motor type= DC brushless motor Battery type = Lithium-ion
The kid’s bike:
EKIDS (Reference vehicle/prototype)
This concept model is a bike for kids learning to ride and mounts a modularized “EVINO” electric power unit. It features a motor with electronic control designed for an easy-to-use and friendly feeling to the ride that is great for kids just learning how to ride. Also, since there is no worry about getting dirty from gasoline or oil, it can be transported in vehicles or ridden indoors.Length×Width×Height = 1,245 mm×575 mm×715 mm Motor type= DC brushless motor Battery type = Lithium-ion
And yeah. A bicycle.
YPJ-01 Epsilon Project 01 (Reference vehicle/prototype)
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Yamaha Motor’s PAS electrically power assisted bicycles. Looking toward the next 20 years, this concept model was conceived to encompass both concrete and abstract elements from the key words of “stylish,” “ecological,” “healthy” and “enjoyable.” Combining the smallest and lightest class of drive unit and battery with a beautiful, sporty frame, this model offers the exciting ride characteristic of a hybrid design. Furthermore, it features a function that links the bicycle’s information with a smartphone, giving the user more ways to enjoy the ride.Length×Width×Height = 1,700 mm×430 mm×1,050 mm Motor type= Center-mounted 250W motor (pedal-crank direct assist) Battery type = Lithium-ion Transmission = Externally-attached 22-speed (Front: 2-speed, Rear: 11-speed)
Here’s the PR Speak:
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. will participate in the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show 2013 (Organizer: Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc.) to be held at the Tokyo Big Sight from November 22 (Fri.) to December 1 (Sun.) (General Public Days from November 23). The theme of the Yamaha Motor booth is “Revs your Heart”*1 and it will be located in the venue’s West Hall 1. A total of 19 models will be on display, including concept models, motorcycles, scooters, electrically power assisted bicycles, ROVs and more. Experience “the growing world of personal mobility” unique to Yamaha, a specialist in small vehicles for personal mobility.
The Electric Chronicles: Power in Flux 