« US Targets 2009 For All Digital TV Network | Main | Intel launches internet over powerlines in India »
October 23, 2005
Yamaha unveils hybrid and electric two-wheelers for Asia
Japan's Yamaha Motor has wheeled out its motorcycles of the future ranging from a hybrid scooter to an electric bike with in-wheel motors and adjustable body.
The Deinonychus two-wheel drive electric vehicle is equipped with motors built into the wheels and has "'stretch' functions in the vertical and horizontal directions for the aluminum frame body.
It is possible to adjust not only the riding position but also the silhouette of the chassis to fit the rider's body size, riding environment, road surface conditions and personal preferences.
The Gen-Ryu, a gas-electric prototype scooter, has a 600-cc engine displacement and is billed as performing and handling like a 1,000-cc class machine thanks to its large diameter wheels and long wheelbase, Yamaha said.
The futuristic-looking scooter is also equipped with rider-friendly functions such as a vehicle-to-vehicle distance warning, voice navigation and rear view monitoring system using a CCD camera and liquid crystal display.
The FC-me fuel-cell motorbike uses a liquid methanol-water solution, which eliminates the need for a converter and pressurized fuel tank and thus makes it possible to create a lightweight system for a small vehicle, the firm said. The model weighs 69 kilograms (152 pounds).
The official said it would take some time before electric motorbikes take to the roads of Asia as companies need to clear the hurdles of lowering costs and enlarging battery capacity.
Posted by admin at October 23, 2005 03:06 PM