Yamaha has teamed up with French electric trials specialists Electric Motion (EM) to introduce their first joint project — the YE-01 Racing Concept, an all-new electric motocross model set to compete in the upcoming MXEP electric class alongside MXGP events.
Described as a “live project,” the YE-01 represents Yamaha’s next step into the electric off-road world, blending the Japanese brand’s race engineering with EM’s proven EV expertise from the trials scene.
Based largely on the 2026 YZ450F chassis, the YE-01 features KYB fully adjustable suspension, giving it similar handling characteristics and ergonomics to Yamaha’s well-known four-stroke motocrosser. Beneath the familiar blue plastics, however, lies a liquid-cooled electric powertrain co-developed with EM — said to deliver MXGP-level power and paired with a hydraulic clutch, a rare addition among electric bikes.
Battery placement has been carefully optimized for mass centralization, mimicking the balance concept of Yamaha’s “reverse-head” engines. Riders will also have access to selectable power modes and traction control settings to adapt to track conditions.
Yamaha says development is ongoing, with their motocross test riders already putting the bike through its paces in preparation for the launch of the MXEP Championship in Europe.
At first glance, the YE-01 looks like more than just a concept — it feels like Yamaha’s way of saying that the electric era in motocross isn’t coming… it’s already here!
