Yamaha just introduced the EC-03, their new Zero-Emission Electric Scooter that’s primed to save the world. Well, at least Asia. The EC-03 is cheaper than most its competitors and apparently highly desirable in Asia’s crazy-for-scooters market.
The EC-03 actually marks the return of Yamaha to the electric motorcycle market. Way back in 2002 they were the first to mass produce an electric motorcycle but they stopped in 2007 because of battery problems. But the problems are fixed now! The EC-03′s 50V lithium ion battery from Sanyo can last 42.8km on a single six-hour charge.
And since its fully electric with zero emissions, it’ll do less damage to our precious environment. If millions in Asia do adopt the EC-03 like anticipated, citizens of Asia can go back to breathing that oxygen thing. It’s expected to cost $US2800 when it launches in September in Japan. [PhysOrg]
Spagman
Thursday, July 15, 2010 at 3:26 PM“Less” damage to the environment. That’s right, electrical engines still rely on things being dug out of the ground (to make the battery, as well as the components of the bike itself) and the electricity to charge it comes from burning coal that’s dug out of the ground.
Electric engines may outlive petrol/oil based engines, but probably not much longer…
Mark
Thursday, July 15, 2010 at 5:45 PMAwesome scooters these are. I hope these will make their way to North American shores soon enough. Not that my Honda uses a lot of gas but it would be good to drive something that is better for the environment.
M@ in SA
Friday, July 16, 2010 at 12:04 AMSpagman has a point here. I believe reporting on battery operated vehicles being the saviour of the environment without taking into consideration how the electricity is produced to charge them is highly irresponsible. Reporting should be more than just regurgitating a company’s marketing material.
Lawrence Weisdorn
Friday, July 16, 2010 at 11:22 AMInexpensive, quiet and zero emissions! These should fly out of the stores.
Jimmy Darl
Saturday, July 17, 2010 at 10:10 AMGood for Yamaha for at least doing something and moving the technology forward.