Yamaha commits to 100% electric car competition

The Japanese manufacturer Yamaha has announced its upcoming arrival in Formula E, the 100% electric championship.

Yamaha briefly appeared in Formula 1 between 1989 and 1997, unfortunately without much success. Between V8, V10, and V12, the engines from the Japanese manufacturer severely lacked reliability and power to compete with the leading brands of the time, Honda and Renault.

No internal combustion engines for this significant return, but a focus on electricity. Yamaha has decided to rely on a legend of motorsport for this return, Lola Cars. Founded in 1958 by the legendary engineer Eric Broadley, Lola disappeared in 2012. Former driver Till Bechtolsheimer bought the name and its trademarks, intending to bring the manufacturer back into motorsport.

Yamaha returns to 4 wheels

Lola and Yamaha have announced that this partnership is a first step towards a broader return to motorsport. The goal is to become a leader in the development of sustainable solutions in the field of motorsports, with a particular emphasis on electrification and hydrogen technology.

A first step is being taken with this commitment starting next year in the Formula E for the 11th season of the discipline. While Lola will develop the shared chassis for all teams, Yamaha will have the heavy task of ensuring the development and optimization of the electric powertrain of the single-seater.

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