- SPHEV is built around two electric motors
- Comes with ‘triple boost’ tech
- Technology introduced mainly to solve range anxiety
Yamaha Motor is exploring another route toward electrified two-wheelers with a new series-parallel hybrid system designed for mid-size scooters, called SPHEV (Series Parallel Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The idea is to deliver the quiet, clean feel of an electric scooter without forcing riders to rely entirely on public charging or a large, heavy battery pack.
According to Yamaha, the SPHEV system is built around two electric motors and an internal combustion engine. One motor acts as the primary drive unit, pushing the scooter forward, while the second motor functions as a generator connected to the engine. This engine can produce electricity to maintain battery charge and, when needed, can also drive the scooter directly. The result is a powertrain that behaves like an EV at low speeds, then automatically shifts to the most efficient energy source as speed and load increase.
The scooter starts off in full electric mode, using only the drive motor and battery power. During deceleration, regenerative braking helps recover small amounts of energy, an approach that makes particular sense in stop-start urban traffic. Once up to speed, the engine can switch on to generate electricity in a series hybrid mode, depending on battery levels. At medium and higher speeds, the system can transition to engine drive, where a combustion engine is more efficient for steady cruising.
Yamaha has also introduced what it calls “boost” logic. In Dual Boost mode, electric motor assistance is added when the rider demands more power. Under harder acceleration, Triple Boost allows the generator motor to contribute as well, increasing overall drive output. The aim is to retain the instant response riders expect from EVs, without the cost and weight penalties of an oversized battery.
By combining series and parallel hybrid operation, Yamaha believes the SPHEV system could reduce the need for large battery packs, ease pressure on charging infrastructure, and still deliver an electric-first riding experience in city conditions. If the setup remains compact, reliable, and easy to service, it could also appeal to high-usage riders such as delivery operators, for whom uptime and running costs matter just as much as efficiency.
