Key highlights
- Yamaha is developing a new ICE tech for future bikes
- Electrically-assisted turbocharged engine details leaked
- MT-09 Hybrid could become the first bike to get the new tech
With the evolving tech for motorcycles, brands have started exploring new, efficient ways to keep the ICE products alive. This is happening with two-wheelers as well, and Yamaha is the latest addition to the list of manufacturers opting for radical ways of making fun bikes. How so? Well, read our detailed report below.
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Yamaha electric turbocharged engine details
It appears that Yamaha has chosen a path to avoid the electrification of its performance motorcycles. The company seems to have opted to develop a new electrically-assisted turbocharged engine.
As per the latest design patent document leak, this upcoming tech will use a mild-hybrid electric assist to eliminate the initial turbo lag. This technology is already in use on high-end sports cars like the Mercedes AMG One.
Meanwhile, Honda is also working on a similar technology, but it will use large capacitors and batteries to store the energy for repetitive turbo fan spooling. However, it will not be the case with the Yamaha as it will likely use a 48V setup, which will keep recharging with every turbo assist.
Speaking of the debut product, online reports hint that the upcoming MT-09 naked sportsbike to become the first product with this technology. However, it is still a rumour as no official confirmation is out yet.
How does it work? Well, unlike a regular turbo engine, where the turbo fan spools up with the exhaust can pressure, the electric-turbo spools the fan before the exhaust gas surge strikes. By this, the initial turbo lag is almost eliminated.
Our verdict
The electrification of premium two-wheelers has begun internationally. While it looks inevitable, manufacturers like Yamaha are trying their best to keep the ICE powertrains alive. The electric-turbo hybrid engine seems to be a good method to do so, as it will be efficient, powerful, and lightweight altogether.