Honda, Yamaha join hands in Japan

Honda and Yamaha have begun talks on a possible alliance in Japan’s Class-1 category which includes scooters with a 50cc engine or electric motor.

As a result of the diversification of the types of short-range transportation, including power-assisted bicycles and mini-vehicles, the market for Class-1 category vehicles in Japan has been shrinking in recent years. Moreover, motorcycle manufacturers are facing various challenges including compliance with safety standards and emissions regulations that will become more stringent in the future, as well as the pursuit of product electrification.

In this backdrop, Honda and Yamaha believe that cooperation is necessary to address these challenges. With a target timetable of end-2018, Honda will begin supplying 50cc scooter models to Yamaha based on the Honda Tact and Giorno. These are models Honda produces and sells in Japan. Yamaha will sell these as the Yamaha Jog and Vino.

Honda and Yamaha are producing and selling 50cc business scooter models for the Japanese market namely the Benly and Gear respectively. The two will explore the possibility of joint development and supplies from Honda to Yamaha of a next-generation version of these business scooter models.

Finally, with the idea of making electric motorcycles popular in the Class-1 category in Japan, the two companies will look at possible collaboration to set up a foundation that will address various issues such as range, charging time, performance and cost. By sharing this with other motorcycle manufacturers, Honda and Yamaha will strive to further facilitate electrification of motorcycle products.

With these future collaborative efforts, the duo will strive to make people’s lives more enjoyable through Class-1 category vehicles, which are accessible and a user-friendly means of transportation for many people. Moreover, both the companies will work toward further revitalisation of the Japanese motorcycle market.

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