Key highlights
- Yamaha MT-09 Hybrid concept bike unveiled
- Uses an electric motor that can run the bike up to 56 km/h
- Currently in the initial development stage
Yamaha has unveiled a new plug-in hybrid concept motorcycle based on the popular MT-09. The prototype bike shows the upcoming petrol-hybrid technology, which is expected to feature in the production bikes soon.
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Yamaha MT-09 Hybrid prototype bike details
The latest reveal of a plug-in hybrid street naked sportsbike is an indication that Yamaha is working on the future eco-friendly bi-fuel bikes. The hybrid concept shows a mix of a petrol engine and an electric motor, which combined drives the bike.
Although the company has not revealed the details about the electric motor setup, the teaser shows cooling fins on the fuel tank, which indicate the use of a redesigned chassis and engine positioning.
One interesting fact is that the electric motor can drive the concept bike up to 56 km/h. This is highly useful for city commutes as it will save a considerable amount of fuel.
For speeds upward of 56 km/h, the engine kicks in, providing adequate power. However, the engine details, including the power and torque figures, are unknown yet.
The official images also showcase a digital altimeter bolted on the tubular handlebar. In terms of styling, the concept bike looks almost identical to the ICE version. The only visible difference is the bulky mid-section, which is due to the new petrol-hybrid powertrain.
Yamaha has not revealed any launch timeline for the hybrid bike, but the teaser shows that the hybrid motorcycles are under development and will be available in the coming years.
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Our verdict
With the growing shift towards EVS, two-wheeler manufacturers have started finding new methods to offer efficient, less polluting, and advanced engines. Yamaha’s plug-in hybrid technology can potentially change the big motorcycle segment forever, if developed rightly.