Yamaha EC-O6 marks the Japanese manufacturer’s definitive entry into India’s rapidly expanding electric two-wheeler segment. Priced at ₹1,67,600 (ex-showroom, Delhi), this electric scooter arrives with a certified 169 km range, a 4 kWh battery, and the engineering precision Yamaha enthusiasts have come to expect. Here’s everything you need to know about this significant launch.
Yamaha EC-O6: Why This Launch Matters for Indian EV Buyers
The Indian electric scooter market has witnessed explosive growth, with Ather Energy, Ola Electric, and TVS dominating the conversation while traditional Japanese manufacturers remained absent. That changes now.
Unlike Honda and Suzuki, which entered with premium pricing and subscription models, Yamaha adopted a partnership approach with Bengaluru-based River Mobility. While the scooter shares underpinnings with the River Indie, Yamaha has differentiated it through distinct styling, refined tuning, and brand-specific connectivity features.
This positions the Yamaha EC-O6 as more than a rebadged product it represents the brand’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility.
Yamaha EC-O6 Price and Availability
India Yamaha Motor has announced the following pricing and market availability:
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | ₹1,67,600 (ex-showroom, Delhi) |
| Colour Options | Bluish White (single option) |
| Sales Channel | Premium Blue Square Showrooms |
| Initial Markets | Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu |
| National Rollout | Phased expansion planned |
The pricing positions the Yamaha EC-O6 approximately ₹21,600 above the River Indie, which retails at ₹1,45,999. This premium reflects the Yamaha badging, design differentiation, and access to the company’s established service network.
Quick Pros and Cons
Advantages
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Certified 169 km Range | Among the highest in segment |
| IP67-rated Motor & Battery | Superior protection against dust and water |
| 4 kWh Battery Capacity | Substantial energy storage |
| Dual Disc Brakes with CBS | Enhanced stopping power |
| Three Riding Modes + Reverse | Versatile performance options |
| 3-year / 30,000 km Battery Warranty | Peace of mind ownership |
| Yamaha Brand Trust | Established after-sales network |
Limitations
| Concern | Impact |
|---|---|
| 24.5-litre Underseat Storage | Below segment average |
| 8-hour Charging Time | No fast charging option |
| Single Colour at Launch | Limited personalization |
| ₹1.67 lakh Price Point | Premium positioning |
| Limited Initial Availability | Only three states at launch |
| 79 kmph Top Speed | Competitors offer higher |
Yamaha EC-O6 Powertrain Specifications
The heart of the Yamaha EC-O6 consists of a carefully engineered electric powertrain. Here’s the complete breakdown:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor Type | IPMSM (Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor) |
| Peak Power | 6.7 kW |
| Continuous Power | 4.5 kW |
| Maximum Torque | 26 Nm |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion (Fixed) |
| Battery Capacity | 4 kWh |
| Certified Range (IDC) | 169 km |
| Real-World Range (Estimated) | 120-140 km |
| Top Speed | 79 kmph |
| Charging Time (0-100%) | Approximately 8 hours |
| Charger Type | Standard home charger |
The IPMSM motor technology employed in the Yamaha EC-O6 offers advantages including higher efficiency, better thermal management, and smoother power delivery compared to conventional brushless DC motors. This translates to a more refined riding experience, particularly during acceleration and deceleration phases.
Yamaha EC-O6 Dimensions and Chassis
The structural engineering of the EC-O6 reflects Yamaha’s emphasis on urban manoeuvrability:
| Parameter | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 132 kg |
| Front Tyre | 110/80-14 |
| Rear Tyre | 120/70-14 |
| Wheel Type | 14-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Fork |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock |
| Front Brake | 200 mm Disc |
| Rear Brake | 200 mm Disc |
| Brake System | CBS (Combi Brake System) |
| Underseat Storage | 24.5 litres |
The 14-inch alloy wheels paired with chunky tyres provide stability and confidence, particularly when negotiating potholes and uneven road surfaces common in Indian cities. The telescopic fork and monoshock combination offers a balanced ride quality, managing both sharp undulations and gentle road imperfections effectively.
Yamaha EC-O6 Features and Technology
Modern electric scooters compete significantly on their feature sets. The Yamaha EC-O6 arrives with the following equipment:
| Feature Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Instrument Cluster | Colour LCD Display |
| Lighting | Full LED (Headlamp and Taillamp) |
| Headlamp Design | Vertically Stacked Dual-Pod LED |
| Connectivity | Yamaha Motor Connect R App |
| Riding Modes | Eco, Standard, Power |
| Additional Modes | Reverse Mode |
| IP Rating (Motor & Battery) | IP67 |
| IP Rating (Electronics) | IP65 |
| Key Type | Conventional Key Slot |
The colour LCD instrument cluster displays essential information including speed, battery status, range estimation, riding mode, and connectivity alerts. The Yamaha Motor Connect R app enables smartphone integration, allowing riders to access vehicle data and smart features remotely.
The vertically stacked dual-pod LED headlamp serves as the defining visual element, distinguishing the Yamaha EC-O6 from the River Indie and lending it a distinctly futuristic appearance. This design choice aligns with Yamaha’s broader design language, evident in models like the Aerox 155.
Yamaha EC-O6 Design Philosophy
The exterior styling represents a deliberate departure from the River Indie’s utilitarian aesthetics. The front fascia features sharp, angular lines converging toward the distinctive dual-pod headlamp. Side panels flow smoothly from handlebar to rear, maintaining visual coherence.
The flat floorboard offers adequate foot space, while the seat balances solo comfort with pillion support. The Bluish White colour scheme combines a predominantly white body with cyan graphics, projecting a fresh, contemporary aesthetic.
Yamaha EC-O6 Battery and Charging Details
| Battery Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 4 kWh |
| Type | Lithium-ion |
| Configuration | Fixed (Non-removable) |
| Warranty | 3 years or 30,000 km |
| Management System | Advanced Temperature & Voltage Control |
| Charging Port Location | Behind Front Apron |
| Charging Time | ~8 hours (Standard Charger) |
| Fast Charging | Not Available |
The fixed battery eliminates swapping flexibility but removes complexity associated with removable systems. The 8-hour charging time positions the scooter toward the longer end of the spectrum—overnight charging remains the most practical approach for urban commuters.
Yamaha EC-O6 vs Competition: How It Compares
The premium electric scooter segment presents several alternatives for consideration:
| Parameter | Yamaha EC-O6 | Ather 450X | TVS iQube ST | River Indie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹1.67 lakh | ₹1.55 lakh | ₹1.46 lakh | ₹1.46 lakh |
| Range (IDC) | 169 km | 126 km | 145 km | 163 km |
| Battery Capacity | 4 kWh | 3.7 kWh | 5.1 kWh | 4 kWh |
| Top Speed | 79 kmph | 90 kmph | 82 kmph | 90 kmph |
| Motor Power | 6.7 kW | 6.4 kW | 5.2 kW | 6.7 kW |
| Storage | 24.5 L | 22 L | 32 L | 43 L |
| Fast Charging | No | Yes | Yes | No |
The comparison reveals the Yamaha EC-O6’s strength lies in its class-leading certified range of 169 km. However, it trails competitors in top speed and storage capacity. The absence of fast charging places it at a disadvantage against Ather and TVS offerings, which support rapid charging infrastructure.
Manufacturing and Quality Assurance
The Yamaha EC-O6 is manufactured at River Mobility’s facility in Hoskote, Karnataka. Yamaha’s investment in River during January 2024 laid the foundation for this collaboration, allowing both companies to benefit from shared expertise.
Quality assurance includes IP67 rating for motor and battery components, ensuring protection against dust and water submersion. Electronic components carry IP65 certification. These ratings provide confidence for riders navigating monsoon conditions.
Yamaha EC-O6 Ownership Experience
Service Network: Serviced through Yamaha’s premium Blue Square network, ensuring specialized attention from trained EV technicians.
Running Costs: Assuming electricity costs of ₹8 per unit, daily commuting of 30-40 km would cost approximately ₹15-20, significantly below petrol scooter equivalents.
Warranty Coverage: Beyond the 3-year battery warranty, standard manufacturer warranty applies to other components.
Motors77 Verdict
The Yamaha EC-O6 represents a measured, strategic entry into India’s electric scooter market. Rather than attempting to revolutionize the segment, Yamaha has chosen to leverage proven technology through its River partnership while adding brand value through design refinement and service network access.
The 169 km certified range stands as the primary selling proposition, addressing range anxiety that continues to concern many first-time EV adopters. The IP67-rated powertrain and 3-year battery warranty further strengthen the reliability narrative.
However, the ₹1.67 lakh pricing demands careful consideration. Competitors offer faster charging, higher top speeds, and greater storage capacity at similar or lower price points. The 24.5-litre underseat storage, in particular, limits practical utility compared to the River Indie’s 43-litre boot and the TVS iQube ST’s 32-litre capacity.
The Yamaha EC-O6 will appeal most strongly to brand-conscious buyers who prioritize range capability and trust in established Japanese engineering over absolute value-for-money metrics. For urban commuters covering 40-50 km daily and possessing dedicated overnight charging facilities, this scooter delivers a refined, worry-free ownership experience.
For buyers prioritizing features, storage, or fast charging capability, alternatives like the Ather 450X or TVS iQube ST warrant serious consideration. Those seeking maximum value might prefer the River Indie, which offers comparable range and identical powertrain at ₹21,600 less.
Disclaimer: Specifications, pricing, and availability mentioned in this article are based on information available at the time of publication. Readers are advised to verify details with authorized Yamaha dealerships before making purchase decisions.
