The Age of Electricity - December 20th 2004

The zero-emission urban commuter could be with us in the near future thanks to Yamaha's visually and technically revolutionary Passol.

First shown at the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show, the superbly practical Passol is the world's first vehicle to feature a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery. Weighing in at just 45kg the groundbreaking Passol is incredibly easy to ride thanks to its totally linear throttle control, while zero exhaust emissions and silent running makes sure that the environment is cared for too. The Passol is already available in Japan, where it is appealing to the iPod generation thanks to its innovative design and a wide range of accessories.

Yamaha electric vehicle has evolved to a range of prototypes that go a new direction in exterior design and set standards in technology. One concept, for example, featured a direct methanol fuel cell and included GPS navigation, camera-equipped rear-view monitor and an AC outlet.

With the Passol already tested in one of the world's toughest environment for any commuter machine - the streets of Tokyo - this technology could find its way to Europe in the near future. Yamaha Motor Europe is currently carrying out an extensive market research programme.