- Unveiled at Japan Mobility Show
- No specs for the sportsbike
- Utility scooter claims 100km range
Yamaha has unveiled two motorcycle concepts at the Japan Mobility Show, highlighting the brand’s commitment to alternative fuels and electrification. The presentation included an electric sportsbike prototype and an urban hydrogen-powered concept, both representing Yamaha’s next steps toward sustainable mobility.
The centrepiece of Yamaha’s showcase is the Proto BEV, a fully electric sportsbike prototype featuring bodywork inspired by the brand’s R7 parallel-twin model. Although Yamaha has not disclosed full technical specifications, the company confirmed the machine is a working prototype aimed at assessing the recreational potential of electric motorcycles.
A close look reveals a robust twin-spar chassis, a double-sided swingarm, and a broad tail section housing a sizeable compartment beneath the seat, likely intended for batteries or auxiliary components. The chain-driven motor sits low and forward in the frame, hidden behind the fairings for a streamlined aesthetic. Yamaha says the Proto BEV concept focuses on track-oriented performance, with a digital display designed to provide real-time feedback to riders both visually and audibly, enhancing engagement and control.
At the opposite end of the brand’s innovation spectrum is the H2 Buddy Porter Concept, developed in partnership with Toyota. This hydrogen-powered prototype aims to bring hydrogen combustion technology to production motorcycles, offering an alternative to battery electrics.
Despite ongoing debate over hydrogen’s viability as a transport fuel, Yamaha insists the prototype meets Euro 5 emissions standards and delivers a cruising range of up to 62 miles (100km). The fuel is stored in a high-pressure hydrogen tank, while engineers have taken primary responsibility for designing the engine and chassis components.
