Yamaha Unveils its New Green EC-03 Electric Scooter
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (TYO:7272) has officially announced the release of its new zero-emissions electric commuter, the EC-03 scooter.
The silent 50cc scooter features a super-slim Yamaha Integrated Power Unit (YIPU) which includes a brushless DC motor, compact controller, drum brake and planetary gear transmission housed inside the rear wheel hub.
The EC-03 is powered by SANYO Electric's newly developed, high energy density 50V lithium-ion battery which can be plugged into a standard 100V electrical outlet. The battery also contributes to improved torque.
Other Yamaha EC-03 features include:
- A built-in charger conveniently located at the rear end of the seat. Just pop open the seat, pull out the cord and plug it in. A full charge takes about six hours.
- Its sleek aluminum-alloy frame measures nearly 62 inches in length and is under 24 inches wide.
- The light-weight scooter, which is about 30 percent less than its gasoline-powered counterpart, weighs just under 124 pounds. Its slim and compact design allows for easy storage and parking.
- The Yamaha Mutual Communication System (YMCS) technology provides for easier operation and smooth performance.
Additional EC-03 Features:
- The electric commuter is equipped with an electronic throttle built right into the handlebar grip
- “A PIN input type anti-theft device”
- Two running modes
- Wire helmet holder and luggage hook
- Digital LCD meter panel
- Aluminum wheels
The EC-03 is not the first electric scooter for Yamaha. In 2002, Yamaha was the first manufacturer to market an electric scooter, the Passol. With a goal of becoming the market leader in electric scooters by 2020, Yamaha plans on releasing several other electric motorcycles models in the future as well.
Electric scooters offer an affordable and eco-friendly alternative for short-distance traveling. Retailing at about US$2,700, the EC-03 scooter is expected to roll out in Tokyo on September 1st and will be sold throughout Japan in October 2010. Advanced orders for the scooter will be accepted in the Tokyo area starting on July 15th and nationwide beginning September 15th.
Photo courtesy of Yamaha
Learn more about New Transportation on eBoom’s transportation page.
Jace Shoemaker-Galloway is a freelance writer from Illinois. While much of her writing focuses on technology, parenting and online safety issues, she has a strong interest in environmental and renewable energy-related issues as well.
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