If you’ve been following the latest buzz from EICMA 2025, you’ll know that Yamaha just dropped something huge, the YE-01 Racing Concept, an all-electric motocross prototype set to compete in the upcoming MXEP electric motocross class. But one detail that really caught everyone’s attention? Yamaha’s partnership with Electric Motion, a French company that’s been quietly redefining what electric off-road performance looks like.
So, who exactly are Electric Motion, and why is Yamaha teaming up with them? Let’s break it down.
A French Brand Built on Electric Passion
Founded in 2010 and based in the south of France, Electric Motion (EM) has been a pioneer in electric trials and off-road motorcycles long before “EV” became a buzzword. Their bikes, such as the EM Epure and Escape series, are renowned for being lightweight, incredibly precise, and loaded with torque. Unlike many early electric brands chasing street commuters, EM focused on technical off-road riding, carving out a loyal following among trials riders and adventure enthusiasts.
Their mission? To create electric bikes that maintain the spirit and skill of traditional riding while leveraging the control and smooth power delivery only electric motors can provide.
Proven Electric Off-Road Expertise
Electric Motion isn’t a newcomer dabbling in electrification; they’ve spent over a decade perfecting electric trials bikes that compete in FIM Trial-E World Championships, proving that their tech can perform under severe competition pressure. Their deep understanding of torque management, traction, and throttle precision makes them an ideal partner for Yamaha, which is now entering the electric motocross space with the YE-01.
This isn’t just a tech collaboration, it’s a fusion of the best of both worlds. Yamaha brings its racing pedigree, chassis design, and global racing network, while Electric Motion contributes cutting-edge electric powertrain and control systems refined through years of real-world use.
Learn more about the Yamaha YE-01 Racing concept here
What Electric Motion Brings to Yamaha’s YE-01
The partnership is more than a name-drop. Electric Motion’s expertise directly influences Yamaha’s new liquid-cooled electric drivetrain and traction control systems. Expect a blend of EM’s smooth torque mapping with Yamaha’s aggressive motocross geometry, a combination that could redefine how electric bikes perform off-road.
Plus, both companies share a focus on rider feel. That’s why the YE-01 still includes a hydraulic clutch, a feature Electric Motion has offered on their trials bikes for years to give riders fine-tuned control, even in tricky terrain.
Why This Partnership Matters
Yamaha’s alliance with Electric Motion signals something bigger: the mainstream acceptance of electric off-road competition. For years, electric bikes were seen as a niche or novelty, but now major manufacturers are looking to brands like EM for their real-world experience.
By teaming up, Yamaha gains a shortcut into mature electric technology, while Electric Motion gains a platform to showcase its innovation on the global motocross stage. It’s a win-win that could accelerate the entire industry’s shift toward high-performance, sustainable racing.
The Future Looks Fast, and Electric
The Yamaha YE-01 isn’t just another concept bike; it’s a sneak peek at where Yamaha is headed next. With Electric Motion’s precision engineering teaming up with Yamaha’s racing DNA, this partnership could completely change how we think about electric power on two wheels.
Whether you’re still on the fence or already all-in on electric, one thing’s clear: if these two keep working together, the future of motocross is going to be faster, cleaner, and just as thrilling as ever.
I’m Saffy Sprocket, reporting from Milan. For more EICMA news, deep dives, and two-wheeled stories, hit that subscribe button and keep those sprockets spinning. Ride safe, stay crazy, and I’ll see you on the next adventure.
