The Yamaha EC-06 is based on the River Indie, but with quite a few changes. The uninitiated would probably never tell that there’s a River Indie lurking underneath and the EC-06 looks different from every angle. The overall styling effect here is handsome, sleeker and more universal in its appeal.
EC-06 Design and Quality -
Yamaha has made some sacrifices in achieving this pared-back look and boot space has dropped significantly from 43-litres to 24.5. Moreover, the front storage box has been removed and Yamaha has added in a new charging port flap that is a lot easier to use than the River’s.
The simple LCD display is similar save for the Yamaha branding and a slightly different layout. However, if you look closely you’ll see some River logos in areas like the hand grips and the motor casing. One of the intentions of Yamaha investing into River and using their EV platform was to expedite development timelines, so it makes sense that the underpinnings are mostly the same.
EC-06 Performance, Range and charging - 7
This applies to the 4kWh battery pack and the 6.7kW electric motor, as well as the three riding modes. Yamaha claims a lower 79kph top speed, but this is actually a GPS verified figure and the display shows the same 91kph as you’d see on the River. Similarly, Yamaha quotes a higher 169km IDC range vs 161km in the Indie, but this is down to the fact that the Yamaha’s homologation was done separately and we’re told that both actually have the same range on offer.
| Specifications | Values |
|---|---|
| Max Motor Power | 9.1 HP |
| Max Motor Torque | 26 Nm |
| EV Battery Capacity | 4 kWh |
| Claimed battery range | 169 km |
| Top Speed | 79 kph |
The motor performs well with a smooth and rather silent riding experience. Eco mode is a bit too dull, but Ride is usable and Sport is fun, even if it isn’t the quickest e-scooter out there. The main downside is that Yamaha provides a 450 watt charger that results in a very slow charging time of 10 hours. They would do well to also offer customers the 750 watt charger that comes with the River.
Yamaha has tweaked the suspension, brakes and chassis rigidity. The result is a more agile and nimble handler than the River with better cornering abilities. The scooter does feel firm over bad roads, but not annoyingly so.
| Specifications | Values |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 1354 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 145 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 132 kg |
| Wheel Size | 14 inch |
EC-06 Price and Verdict - 7
At Rs 1.67 lakh ex-showroom the EC-06 is a steep Rs 22,000 more than the River. It will be sold out of select Yamaha dealerships and will be available in around 20 cities by the end of April. The scooter is expensive, but is good to ride and will find some appeal.