Scooter Video Yamaha EC-03 Video Release of the EC-03 (50cc License Class) Zero-emissions Electric Commuter Vehicle
Yamaha Motor
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announces the release of the new electric
commuter “EC-03,” a model designed and engineered with the product
concept of a “Smart Minimal Commuter.” Yamaha Motor will begin selling
from September 1 in the Tokyo metropolitan area*1 and
nationwide from October 1, 2010.
The new EC-03 is a “zero-emissions” vehicle with a smooth and quiet ride
that also allows the rider to enjoy lightness and slim design not found
in conventional 50cc scooters. This model features a new high energy
density 50V lithium-ion battery manufactured by SANYO Electric Co., Ltd.
and Yamaha Motor’s exclusive super-slim Yamaha Integrated Power Unit
(YIPU), which combine to provide smooth running performance at all
times.
Furthermore, it achieves a running distance per charge of 43km (@
30km/h on a flat road)*2 to provide the functionality and
running performance desired for short-range transportation needs in the
urban environment.
This new model also features plug-in recharging from a 100V household
electrical outlet (3-hole grounded type), excellent ease of manoeuvring
thanks to its lightweight aluminium alloy frame and other features to
ensure the high level of functionality and convenience as a “smart,
minimal commuter” vehicle.
Prior to its market release, advance orders for EC-03 will be accepted
at designated dealerships beginning from July 15 in the Tokyo
metropolitan area and nationwide from September 15, 2010.
Leaders in a variety of fields are working to solve
environmental problems and improve economic efficiency for the society
of tomorrow by clustering or dispersing urban activity into a new
structure, in which vehicles are used more selectively than they are now
– e.g. automobiles for long-distance travelling while motorcycles for
short-distance travelling. Small motorcycles offer excellent mobility for
easy short-distance transportation, ideal for the transportation needs
of the new society. They will provide still greater convenience and ease
of use when they are powered by electricity.
In 2002, Yamaha Motor became the first manufacturer to market a
production-model electric commuter, the Passol, as a minimal commuter
designed to play a role in next-generation urban transportation. Then in
2005, Yamaha Motor released the Passol-L and the EC-02 with further
improvements in the motor and higher energy density batteries that
combined to increase running distance per charge. Due to exclusive
technologies, such as the electronic control technology garnered from
Yamaha Motor’s PAS electrically power assisted bicycle development,
these models offer a level of quietness and smoothness to the ride that
only an electric vehicle can provide. As a result, they have been put to
use in a growing range of areas besides short-range urban commuting,
including use as rental vehicles in tourist areas and fleet vehicles in
resorts.
The new EC-03 has been developed as a “personal commuter” vehicle that
is expected to find even more diverse uses in the future. For Yamaha Motor, this model is a manifestation of our efforts to develop new forms
of “Smart Power”*3 as defined in our current medium term
management plan.
*3: New power sources, primarily for electric vehicles,
designed to create a new paradigm of mobility.
1)
Super-slim power unit (YIPU) that provides outstanding power on starting
and low-speed torque
The super-slim power unit YIPU (Yamaha Integrated Power Unit) is adopted
on this model.
It features a direct-drive type in-hub motor to minimise drive
power-transmission loss and computer control to calculate output based
on rear wheel rpm and throttle position for smooth running performance.
In combination with optimum gear settings, the built in electronic
throttle and specially designed tires, this unit helps provide a
silky-smooth and quiet ride. The newly designed motor and control unit
help achieve added torque when starting and in the low-speed range
(approximately 10%-15% more than the existing model).
The basic structure of the super-slim power unit integrates into the
rear hub (1) a super-flat surface opposing type brushless DC motor, (2) a
super-compact controller, (3) a planetary type decelerator transmission
unit and (4) a drum brake. To achieve even greater compactness, the
unit is built into the rear arm. The motor features an anisotropic
bonded magnet to help provide excellent performance when starting, in
the middle speed range, and when climbing steep inclines.
2) High energy density 50V lithium-ion battery
The EC-03 mounts a newly developed high energy density 50V
lithium-ion battery that also contributes to improved torque (power
development) characteristics in the low-speed range. Furthermore, the
battery charging is completed in approximately six hours and the running
distance per charge is 43km at 30km/h on a windless flat road at 25°C,
running in Standard Mode with a load (rider) weight of 55kg on a fully
charged battery
3) Plug-in type recharging
The battery charging system is a plug-in type that increases convenience
by making it possible to charge the vehicle where an electric outlet is
available. The charger unit is built into the vehicle at the rear end
of the seat, so charging is done by simply connecting the plug from the
machine to the outlet (3-hole grounded type) by means of an electric
cord.
The electricity cost of one charge is about ¥18*4.
*4: Average cost for a general customer of Tokyo
Electric Power Company when charging the battery from zero to a full
charge.
4) Mutual-communication control system (YMCS)
This model adopts a mutual-communication type controller YMCS (Yamaha
Mutual Communication System) featuring exclusive Yamaha control
technology. In this system the (1) battery, (2) controller, (3) charger
and (4) meter systems operate constantly, exchanging data via a data
exchange circuits to achieve integrated overall machine control. This
enables automatic control of system activation, motor drive operation,
ancillary drive, etc. in all conditions, including when the machine is
on standby, when running and when being recharged. The result is easier
operation for the user and smooth running performance.
5) Lightweight aluminum alloy frame for easier
machine handling
The newly designed aluminium-alloy frame is lightweight and is designed
with optimised pipe diameters and thickness to increase rigidity and
improve handling stability. Furthermore, the effect of the optimised
wheelbase and weight balance of the various components helps provide
excellent straight-line running stability. The compact design with an
overall length of just 1,565 mm allows it to fit in a standard apartment
building elevator. This model is very space-efficient for parking and
storage and can be kept indoors if desired. Due to the use of aluminium
in the frame and wheels, the weight of the machine is just 56 kg, which
makes it approximately 30% lighter than a gasoline engine model of the
same class (based on Yamaha Motor survey). Also, the slim chassis and
simple designs contribute to providing an aesthetic lightness as well.
6) Other features
Other features that come as standard equipment on this model include an
electronic throttle built into the handlebar grip, a choice of two
running modes*5, a PIN input type anti-theft device, a
“High-function LED Meter Panel” with odometer and tripmeter switching
function, key-operated pop-up type seat lock, a wire type helmet holder,
luggage hook and more.
*5: The EC-03 is equipped with a choice of motor modes
to adapt to power output characteristics required for different running
conditions. The Standard Mode is for normal riding and the Power Mode is
for inclines.
published 21/07/2010 |