Japanese two-wheeler giant Yamaha is preparing to make its debut in the Indian electric scooter market with a new model based on the River Indie platform. Internally codenamed RY01, the e-scooter was recently spotted in testing, indicating that its official launch is likely to coincide with the upcoming festive season.
Major Investment in River Mobility Accelerates Yamaha’s EV Plans
Yamaha Led USD 40 Million Series B Funding to Drive Local Electric Mobility
A little over a year ago, Yamaha cemented its commitment to electric mobility by investing more than USD 20 million—over 60 percent of a USD 40 million Series B funding round—in Bengaluru-based startup River Mobility. Other notable investors included Al Futtaim Group, Lowercarbon Capital, Toyota Ventures, and Maniv Mobility.
This strategic investment has enabled Yamaha to partner closely with River, leveraging local expertise and manufacturing capabilities to rapidly bring a competitive electric scooter to Indian roads.
Familiar Yet New: Spy Shots Reveal Fresh Styling and Retained Practicality
Yamaha’s RY01 Merges Indie’s Bulk and Features With All-New Design Elements
Recent spy images of the Yamaha RY01 reveal a familiar silhouette strongly reminiscent of the River Indie, thanks to elements like the chunky front fender, large 14-inch alloy wheels, and robust swingarm. However, the test mule also sports several unique design features, such as a redesigned frontal section with a new LED headlamp cluster, distinct LED pilot lights, an upgraded LCD instrument console, and new taillights.
Signature Indie elements like the mounting bars have been removed, but the Yamaha version promises to retain the original’s famed spaciousness, ruggedness, and practicality.
Powertrain and Range: Impressive Specs Likely to Continue
6.7 kW Motor, 4 kWh Battery, and Up to 161 km Range on a Single Charge
Yamaha is expected to carry forward the River Indie’s proven 6.7 kW electric motor and 4 kWh battery pack. This setup delivers a claimed range of 161 km between charges—an attractive proposition for urban commuters. The scooter is also likely to offer three distinct riding modes: Eco, Ride, and Rush, catering to different riding preferences and efficiency needs.
Rising Competition in the Indian Electric Two-Wheeler Market
Honda, Suzuki, and Now Yamaha Vie for Early Leadership
Yamaha’s entry follows Honda’s recent electric scooter launch and Suzuki’s imminent e-Access debut, signaling a new era of competition in India’s rapidly growing electric two-wheeler market. The upcoming Yamaha e-scooter will roll out of River’s Karnataka-based production lines, sharing its DNA and manufacturing quality with the Indie.
Launch Timeline and Market Outlook
Anticipation Builds as Festive Season Nears
With continued road testing and refinement underway, industry insiders expect Yamaha to officially launch the scooter during the 2025 festive season. The model is poised to attract a broad customer base, offering a unique blend of international technology and local practicality.
