Yamaha's Bold India Gamble: New Premium Bikes & Electric Scooters to Ignite Market Share!

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Updated on 12 Nov 2025, 05:57 pm

Yamaha Motor India, a long-standing player with four decades in the country, is strategizing a significant turnaround by shifting its focus towards the premium segment of the two-wheeler market. Chairman Itaru Otani believes Indian customers are increasingly preferring deluxe and high-performance vehicles, an area where Yamaha sees strong potential.

The company plans to introduce 10 new models, featuring two electric scooters, within the next year. A key focus will be the 149-155cc motorcycle segment, where Yamaha currently holds a 17% share and aims to increase it to 25% by 2030. Exports are also a priority, with a target of 340,000 units for the current calendar year, up from 278,000 units in 2024.

Yamaha exited the commuter motorcycle segment in 2018 to concentrate on models 150cc and above, which has improved profitability. For electric vehicles, Yamaha plans a premium strategy, collaborating with Bengaluru-based startup River for its Aerox-E and EC-06 models, avoiding direct competition with existing Indian EV makers.

Impact: This strategic pivot by Yamaha could intensify competition in India's premium motorcycle and burgeoning electric scooter segments. It may drive innovation and product development from competitors, potentially benefiting consumers. For investors, it signals a renewed focus on a potentially high-growth segment within the Indian auto market. The success of these new models and EV launches will be crucial for Yamaha's market revival.

Rating: 7/10

Difficult Terms: ICE (Internal Combustion Engine): A type of engine that burns fuel inside a cylinder to generate power, common in traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers): Companies that manufacture products under their own brand name, often supplying parts or finished goods to other companies. Flex-fuel technology: Fuel system that can run on a mix of gasoline and ethanol, or on pure gasoline or pure ethanol.