Yamaha create a car!

A joint venture between Yamaha and Gordon Murray Design (GMD), the MOTIV.e resembles the Smart and Toyota Aygo ultra-compact cars, but the design is based on the 'T' series of compact, fuel-efficient city cars from GMD.

The 2-seater body consists of composite monocoque panels bonded to a steel frame to create a rigid safety cell, with independent suspension and 15-inch wheels all round.

Somewhat surprisingly, the MOTIV.e powerplant isn't a modified Yamaha motorcycle engine, but an all-new electric 'eMotor' producing 15kW and a staggering 658Nm torque. Peaks of 25kW and 896Nm are claimed, as well as a 160 kilometre range and 105kph top speed.

The MOTIV.e was one of several compact city cars presented at Tokyo; some close to production reality, while others were more fanciful concepts. What category Yamaha's creation fits into remains to be seen!

Images: Gordon Murray Design