Yamaha brings new electric & hybrid prototypes to Japan Mobility Show 2025
Yamaha Motor is going big at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 (Tokyo Big Sight, Oct. 29–Nov. 9) under the theme ‘Feel. Move.‘ Expect world premieres across electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered motorcycles, plus some wild concept mobility machines.
At the heart of Yamaha’s booth (East Hall 5): a look at the future of two- and three-wheel mobility, where AI, batteries, and hydrogen come together to push beyond what motorcycles have ever been.
Here are the standouts:
MOTOROiD:Λ – a bike that teaches itself
Yamaha’s MOTOROiD series has always been about rethinking the bond between rider and machine.
- 2017: The first MOTOROiD balanced itself and responded to its owner.
- 2023: MOTOROiD2 acted like a true ‘partner,’ adapting to the rider.
- 2025: MOTOROiD:Λ takes the leap into AI-driven autonomy.
This prototype uses reinforcement learning to train in virtual environments, then applies those skills in real life (a method called Sim2Real). The result? A machine that learns, evolves, and moves organically on its own, with a lightweight exoskeleton tough enough to handle its trial-and-error growth. Yamaha isn’t just making a bike, it’s creating a self-improving mobility partner.
PROTO BEV – a pure-electric supersport
Think supersport thrills, but battery powered. Yamaha’s PROTO BEV prototype is designed around the ‘fun only a big-battery EV can deliver.’ It’s lightweight, compact, and track-focused, with:
- Supersport stability derived from Yamaha’s combustion bikes.
- Instant, linear throttle response from an EV drivetrain.
- A simplified cockpit with fingertip controls, a visual/audio display, and sound design to heighten the riding experience.
This isn’t just about clean mobility, it’s about reimagining performance for the electric era.
H2 Buddy Porter Concept – hydrogen goes two-wheeled
Yamaha and Toyota have teamed up for a new hydrogen-powered motorcycle prototype. The H2 Buddy Porter uses a compact, high-pressure hydrogen tank (certified for two-wheel use) and a Yamaha-developed hydrogen engine and chassis.
- Cruising range: 100+ km per tank
- Meets Euro 5 emissions standards (including NOx)
- Built with real-world road use in mind
Hydrogen engines may still be experimental, but Yamaha clearly wants them on the streets.
TRICERA proto – a three-wheel EV with 3WS steering
Open-top. Three wheels. Full electric. Yamaha’s TRICERA proto blends autocycle fun with experimental tech:
- Three-Wheel Steering (3WS): delivers cornering performance and a new steering sensation.
- αlive AD sound system: enhances the EV motor’s sound for extra excitement.
- Design: futuristic ‘arching silhouette’ that emphasizes the three-wheel structure and contrasts rider vs. machine space.
It’s as much about learning to master a new driving style as it is about raw performance.
PROTO HEV – hybrid riding, two moods
The PROTO HEV lets you switch between Serene mode (quiet, electric-only city cruising) and Spirited mode (engine power for country roads). With Yamaha’s proprietary hybrid power management:
- Fuel efficiency: over 35% better than similar-class motorcycles.
- Ride character: calm and eco-friendly when you want it, thrilling when you don’t.
PROTO PHEV – plug-in hybrid supersport
Rounding out the lineup is the PROTO PHEV, a plug-in hybrid that merges ICE excitement with EV efficiency. Riders can toggle between full EV for silent city use or hybrid mode for longer, spirited rides. The concept is about keeping the visceral fun of motorcycles alive while preparing for a cleaner future.
Why It Matters
Yamaha isn’t just showing concepts, it’s testing every possible path to the future of motorcycles: AI that learns, EVs that thrill, hydrogen for zero-emissions combustion, and hybrids that blend the best of both worlds.
From self-learning bikes to hydrogen engines, the Japan Mobility Show 2025 may just be Yamaha’s boldest vision yet.