Photography: Swapnil Dhawale
We know how the Yamaha Aerox has won over enthusiasts, especially with its looks and outright performance. More so because it carries the same 155cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder VVA heart that also does duty on the R15, MT-15 and the XSR 155. However, on the Aerox, it is tuned to suit the scooter’s requirements, delivering a balance of performance and efficiency. I have ridden the Aerox myself and personally know owners who say the money is well spent, with many even going ahead and customising their Aeroxes to suit their needs.
Yamaha introduced its two electric scooters for the Indian market last year – the EC-06 and the Aerox E. While the EC-06, as we know, is developed in collaboration with Bengaluru-based electric scooter startup River, the Aerox E sparked a lot of curiosity. Considering the ICE Aerox is such a strong performer, expectations from the ‘E’ were naturally high. But is the Aerox E just an Aerox with a battery pack and electric motor? Or is it something more? Let’s find out.
For the uninitiated, the Aerox E could easily pass off as a regular Aerox unless you notice the ‘E’ lettering beside the nameplate. Yamaha has kept the colour scheme simple – white with black accents and subtle touches of sky blue graphics. At the rear left, the absence of the air filter box and the presence of the mid-mounted motor are evident. On the right, the radiator is replaced with a sky blue cover, further highlighting its electric nature, along with the mode button on the right switchcube and an additional boost button on the left, placed below the horn.
The Aerox E comes with a key fob that can be kept in your pocket, allowing you to operate the scooter via a knob. This lets you switch the scooter on or off, and in the ‘open’ setting, provides access to the charging door and socket (placed in the fuel tank area). You also get a push-type open/close compartment housing a USB charging port, surrounded by a rim light so you don’t have to fumble for it in the dark.
Coming to the cycle parts, the Aerox E rides on 14-inch tyres wrapped around alloy wheels and gets telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks. Braking duties are handled by dual disc brakes, with single-channel ABS at the front adding a layer of safety. The dual-tone seat looks sporty and has a noticeable slope. The presence of a central tunnel means it isn’t a step-through, and therefore lacks a flat footboard unlike most scooters, ICE or electric. It gets all-LED lighting, although we will have to test the headlamp performance in the dark. The 5-inch TFT display looks crisp and easy to read.
Powering the Aerox E are two 1.5kWh removable battery packs, which Yamaha claims take 3 hours and 10 minutes to charge one battery, and 6 hours and 20 minutes for both. The Aerox E gets three riding modes –Eco, Standard and Power, along with traction control. There is also a reverse mode to help manoeuvre the scooter out of tight parking spaces. The motor produces a peak power of 9.4kW (12.78PS) and 48Nm. Yamaha claims a top speed of 95.5kmph in Power mode with boost enabled – more on that shortly. The TFT display also supports Bluetooth connectivity via the Y-Connect app, offering features like turn-by-turn navigation.
Riding the Aerox E has been fun, especially because it exhibits sharp handling thanks to a suspension setup tuned for spirited riding. It changes direction easily and tips into corners with confidence. However, our time with the scooter has been limited to smooth roads, so a full assessment of its city ride quality will have to wait. At low speeds, Eco mode helps maximise range, albeit with limited top speed. Switch to Power mode, and the scooter comes alive, with noticeably sharper acceleration. It builds speed quickly and can touch 90kmph with ease. Engage the boost mode, and speeds of close to 95kmph are achievable. The boost function is available across all three modes and provides an extra surge for up to 10 seconds – useful for quick getaways from a standstill. Braking performance is strong, with good bite, and the rear can be made to step out into a slide if you push it. The single-channel ABS ensures added safety in emergency situations.
While the seat is comfortable, the riding position makes you lean forward slightly, almost hunching over the handlebar. Under braking, you tend to slide forward, and taller riders will find their knees brushing against the front apron. Those with a larger build may also feel a bit cramped. That said, it remains one of the more engaging and fun-to-ride electric scooters I’ve experienced in a while.
So, should you look forward to buying the Aerox E? The answer is yes – if you’re an enthusiast looking for a sporty electric scooter. It’s not without flaws and is expected to command a premium over the EC-06, which is priced at ₹1.68 lakh (ex-showroom). Expect the Aerox E to be closer to the ₹2 lakh mark. But in terms of riding experience, it is fun, engaging, and very much an Aerox at heart!
