Yamaha’s YE-01 Racing Concept is about to move from the show floor to the motocross track, with the electric motocross prototype confirmed to make an exhibition run at the 2026 Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations (MXoN) in Ernée, France, from 2 October.
The project is currently being developed with the upcoming MXEP electric motocross racing series in mind. However, Yamaha has not indicated that the YE-01 will enter production or be introduced in India, with its immediate focus remaining on development and competition.
Yamaha has partnered with French electric motorcycle manufacturer Electric Motion SAS (EM) for the project, combining Yamaha’s motocross expertise with EM’s experience in electric powertrains. The YE-01 uses chassis technology derived from Yamaha’s YZ450F motocross programme, while the dedicated electric power unit has been developed jointly by the two companies.
The concept was first unveiled at EICMA 2025, and its appearance at MXoN will provide a more meaningful demonstration of its capabilities. Yamaha has previously highlighted racing as an important part of its development process, particularly for gaining experience with electric control systems and thermal management.
The YE-01 features a newly developed frame based on knowledge gained from the YZ450F programme. Yamaha says the chassis has been designed to deliver stable handling and precise control, while ground clearance stands at 345mm. The motorcycle measures 2,175mm long, 825mm wide and 1,275mm high.
One of the most unusual features is its clutch. Unlike most electric motorcycles, which can operate without a conventional clutch or gearbox, the YE-01 uses a hydraulic wet multi-plate clutch. Yamaha says the system allows riders to control drive force through the clutch lever, maintaining a familiar element of control for motocross riders. Power comes from a liquid-cooled AC synchronous motor paired with a lithium-ion battery pack. Yamaha has yet to reveal the motor’s output, battery capacity, overall weight or expected riding duration.
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For now, the MXoN exhibition run represents the next step in the YE-01’s development, giving Yamaha an opportunity to evaluate the electric motocross concept in a real racing environment before any decision is made about its future.
