This year at the Tokyo Motor Show, Yamaha will be showcasing a total of 6 world premiere models among 16 other future concept models including mid-development prototypes, different electric and hybrid motorcycles and eBikes. The show is scheduled from 29th October to 9th November. In this story we will be largely focusing on 4 concepts of the two-wheeler variety.
1. Yamaha Proto BEV resembles the R9 supersport
2. The Hydrogen Buddy Porter concept boasts a 100km range
3. The MT-09 Hybrid and XMAX Hybrid will also be present
Yamaha’s Tokyo Show concepts: What to expect?
Proto BEV
Starting with the first concept: the Proto BEV — it appears to sport a conventional design compared to the much more radical concepts that share the stage with it. Yamaha says that this concept was developed around the idea of “fun that can only be experienced with a large-capacity battery EV.”
A large-capacity EV typically implies a higher kerb weight due to a larger battery pack, but the brand claims that lightness and compactness have been prioritised resulting in a genuinely fun-to-ride EV. In form, the Proto BEV leans more towards the supersport side of motorcycling, suggesting that this EV is designed for track use. Additionally, the company says it has drawn upon its extensive motorsport know-how to develop this machine. The Proto will also feature something called human-machine interaction, aimed squarely at enhancing the rider’s focus on track by providing both visual and aural data about the bike’s status.
H2 Buddy Porter Concept
The Buddy Porter sits at the completely opposite end of the spectrum compared to the Proto BEV. It is being jointly developed with Toyota Motor Corporation, which has created a new compact, high-pressure hydrogen tank suitable for motorcycles and scooters. Yamaha also claims that it has been certified by the relevant regulatory bodies.
As the name suggests, it’s a hydrogen-powered motorcycle concept designed for city runabouts, offering a total range of around 100 km. It somewhat resembles a rickshaw with a canopy, though it rides on just two wheels and features rear storage that opens to reveal two hydrogen tanks. Yamaha further states that various technical requirements for public-road use based on existing regulations have been taken into account.
In addition to these, Yamaha will also showcase several earlier concepts with a few developments. The first of these familiar ideas is the XMAX series–parallel hybrid scooter. It is powered by both a single-cylinder engine and an electric motor, and Yamaha claims that the XMAX SHEV concept can also operate solely on electric power.
Lastly, Yamaha will present an MT-09–based hybrid that can switch between petrol and electric power. This year, Yamaha’s focus will be on the future of human mobility through alternative powertrains such as electric and hybrid systems. The Tokyo Motor Show commences tomorrow — stay tuned for further updates.
Yamaha XMax series hybrid scooter concept showcased
Azaman Chothia
Vishal Venugopal
