New Yamaha Electric Scooter Patented With Belt-Drive Setup, India Launch Possible
Yamaha's next electric scooter could finally target the mass market
Quick News Highlights:
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Looks production-ready
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Gets a TFT console & all-LED lighting
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Could launch in India
Yamaha appears to be preparing another shot at the electric scooter segment. A Japanese design filing has revealed what looks like a production-ready electric scooter with a fresh mechanical layout and styling that's unlike anything currently sold by the brand. While there's no official confirmation yet, the scooter looks close to production and could eventually find its way to India.
A Different Take On An Electric Scooter
At first glance, the scooter's overall silhouette is reminiscent of the Yamaha Cygnus XR155 sold internationally, complete with a handlebar-mounted cowl. However, the biggest talking point lies underneath the bodywork.
Instead of using a hub-mounted motor, the upcoming Yamaha scooter employs a centrally mounted electric motor that sends power to the rear wheel via a belt drive. This motorcycle-like arrangement could offer better weight distribution and potentially improve handling compared to conventional hub-motor setups.
The battery pack is positioned beneath the seat, similar to the Yamaha Neo electric scooter sold overseas.
In terms of styling, the front end features four rectangular LED headlights flanking a V-shaped LED DRL, giving it a distinct, aggressive face. The taillight also gets a sharp, angular design. Other visible features include a compact TFT instrument console, multiple storage cubbies inside the apron and what appears to be a keyless ignition system, as there's no visible key slot.
BikeDekho Says
Yamaha's current electric scooter portfolio in India hasn't quite hit the sweet spot, largely because both the EC-06 and especially the Aerox-E are priced on the expensive side for what they offer. If this new scooter is launched with a more accessible price tag, say around Rs 1 lakh, it could become Yamaha's most relevant EV yet. It will take on rivals such as the TVS iQube, Vida VX2 and Bajaj Chetak C2501 while giving buyers a more affordable way into the Yamaha EV lineup.