Yamaha returns to high-wheel scooters with the electric XENTER E

Yamaha has launched the XENTER E, a battery-electric high-wheel scooter for the A1 licence category, with performance equivalent to a 125cc model. The scooter was presented ahead of EICMA 2026 in Milan and marks Yamaha’s return to the high-wheel segment, which matters most to European city riders who deal with cobblestones, tram rails and potholes every day. Dealer deliveries start in spring 2027.

The XENTER E arrives alongside the NMAX E, which shares the same powertrain and battery, and a petrol-powered XENTER concept that Yamaha is showing in Milan.

eAxle powertrain mounted to the frame

The XENTER E uses Yamaha’s new eAxle drive unit. It combines an air-cooled interior permanent magnet synchronous motor, the motor control unit and a primary reduction gearbox in one compact package. Peak output is 7.5 kW at 3,500 rpm, and maximum torque of 33.3 Nm arrives at 500 rpm. A belt takes the drive to the rear wheel.

Unlike a typical petrol scooter, where the engine forms part of the swingarm, the XENTER E has its drive unit bolted to the frame. That allows a motorcycle-style swingarm and lowers unsprung weight, which Yamaha says improves ride comfort and handling.

Battery, range and charging

Energy comes from a 3.5 kWh lithium-ion battery with an IP67 rating, housed in a protective casing. The L-shaped pack sits low in the centre of the chassis, which keeps the floorboard flat and leaves room under the seat. Claimed range is 108 km in the WMTC class 1 cycle, measured at a battery temperature of 25 °C.

Charging is handled by an 800 W on-board charger with a fanless design. A full charge from 0 to 100 percent takes 5.5 hours at 220 V. The charging socket, located in a side compartment, accepts AC Type 2 public car chargers, and a dedicated cable allows charging from a household socket.

Alongside the scooter, Yamaha is launching YOU Charge, a subscription service for public charging developed with national charging network operators. It will be sold through Yamaha dealers, starting in the first markets in early 2027 and expanding to the main European EV markets during the year.

Chassis and brakes

The scooter is built around a new lightweight underbone frame with a 1,485 mm wheelbase. It runs on 16-inch wheels at both ends, with a 100/80-16 front tyre and a 120/80-16 rear. Suspension travel is 100 mm at the front and 97 mm at the rear. Seat height is 790 mm.

Braking is by 245 mm discs front and rear, both with ABS. Regenerative braking adapts to the selected ride mode and is tuned to resemble the engine braking of a combustion scooter.

Electronics and practicality

Riders can choose between three ride modes. S gives the sharpest acceleration, T softens throttle response, and E limits acceleration and top speed to extend range. Traction control is standard, as is APSG, a throttle grip that progressively increases resistance for more feedback. A reverse function, operated by pressing the REVERSE and MODE buttons together, moves the scooter backwards at below walking pace.

The 5-inch TFT display offers day and night modes and shows battery level, remaining charge and regeneration status, plus a power meter with a moving needle. Through the Yamaha Motor On app, owners get turn-by-turn navigation, battery status, maintenance schedules, parking location and trip data. Smart key ignition is fitted.

The underseat compartment fits a full-face helmet, depending on size and shape. A small front compartment holds a USB Type-C charger, and a folding bag hook sits at knee height. Yamaha has designed the scooter for easy fitment of accessories, including a high screen, apron, handguards, scratch protectors, a console bag and a 34-litre top case.

Colours, price and availability

The XENTER E comes in Platinum Silver or Midnight Black, both with aqua accents. Yamaha has not announced official pricing per market and refers buyers to local distributors. Early reports from the Milan press launch put the German price at 7,799 euro, the same as the NMAX E. The XENTER E reaches Yamaha dealers from spring 2027.