Yamaha XMax 125 Scooter Introduces Innovative Hybrid Technology
Yamaha has introduced a new technology called SPHEV, which stands for Series Parallel Hybrid Electric Vehicle. This innovative setup includes three engines: a petrol engine combined with two electric motors. While many manufacturers have already created hybrid scooters that use two engines, Yamaha’s approach with three engines opens new doors for efficiency and performance.
To test this new SPHEV system, Yamaha has fitted it into the XMax 125cc scooter. The company intends to expand this technology to various mid-range scooters in the future and might even adapt it for larger scooters, motorcycles, and cruising bikes, although specific plans haven’t been shared yet.
The SPHEV setup consists of a 125cc petrol engine along with two electric motors. One electric motor is connected directly to the wheels, acting as the primary driver for the scooter. The second motor is attached to the crankshaft of the petrol engine. This motor primarily generates electricity, but it can also provide extra power to assist in driving the wheels.
Depending on how the user chooses to control the throttle, the petrol engine can power the wheels and also generate electricity via the electric motor. Key components of the SPHEV system include a battery, an inverter, and a vehicle control unit (VCU).
Multiple driving modes can be activated with this technology. For instance, the scooter can run solely on the primary electric motor. In automatic mode, this motor will be engaged during the scooter’s start-up phase. When operating solely on electricity, the scooter will run quietly, which is beneficial in residential areas or locations where noise must be kept to a minimum. As the scooter accelerates and requires more energy, the petrol engine will automatically kick in to help, particularly at medium and high speeds.
The two electric motors and the petrol engine allow for various driving modes. In situations where additional speed is needed, users can engage a Boost mode. In this mode, both the petrol engine and electric motors will operate together, providing enhanced acceleration for tasks like overtaking on the road.
Currently, the SPHEV technology is still in the concept phase, and Yamaha has not yet released full details about the electric motors and battery specifications. The company is still in the research and development stage and may need to refine this technology before it becomes available for sale. There’s a possibility that Yamaha will showcase the SPHEV concept at the upcoming EICMA 2025 event, which could provide more insights into whether this technology is designed merely as a concept or if it will meet the practical needs of riders.
Overall, Yamaha’s introduction of the SPHEV technology represents a significant step forward in the world of hybrid scooters, promising an exciting combination of performance and efficiency for future riders.
