Design
Dec 10, 2024

Yamaha New Superbike Inspired by AI Looks

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. Announces it has collaborated with Netflix, one of the world's leading entertainment services, on the production of Tokyo Override, an original anime streamed globally, exclusively on Netflix on November 21, 2024.Tokyo Override is set in Tokyo 100 years in the future where AI has been integrated into daily life and all aspects of urban living are automated. In this sci-fi anime full of motorcycle action, existing and originally designed motorcycles roar through the streets of Tokyo.Yamaha Motor's collaboration with Netflix for this project began when we received their request for permission to select and use Yamaha motorcycles in the anime. We cooperated by providing 3D data, images, and sound recordings of the YZF-R1, superbike, and the VMAX, muscle cruiser. In addition to these iconic models, hoping that we could attract the audience to become interested in the world of motorcycles, we also assisted in building the anime's world of 100 years in the future, offering ideas for mobility, designing the race machine concept "Y/AI", and providing other support such as supervising the sound effects.The YZF-R1, VMAX, and Y/AI are all featured in the anime series. We also created a full-scale concept model of the Y/AI, to be world premiered at the Motor Expo 2024 in Bangkok, Thailand running from November 29 to December 10.

Yamaha motors; One of the highlights of Tokyo Override is its racing scenes, where Amarin races aboard the Y/AI-a machine that trusts in its rider's possibilities-through a futuristic Tokyo.

Tokyo Override is a new Netflix original science fiction anime series set in Tokyo 100 years in the future, is now streaming exclusively on Netflix. Yamaha Motor's Creative Center gave its full cooperation in the production of the series, from providing 3D data and support of recording the sounds of Yamaha's legendary YZF-R1 and VMAX motorcycles, as well as collaborating with the World Building for the story and designing an original concept race bike in 100 years in the future. The motorcycle action is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the series.

The dynamic motorcycle action is one of the highlights of this anime. Yamaha Motor cooperated and oversaw various parts of the production process. For example, the characters ride through the future city streets on already legendary classics such as Yamaha YZF-R1 and VMAX. We provided the 3D design data and assisted with recording the sounds of the actual motorcycles. Our designers and planners were also actively involved in the series' production process, envisioning the motorcycle racing scene 100 years in the future and designing the machine that races. "What was particularly interesting was the scenario creation process called World Building we did with the production team," recalls NAKAMURA, Satoshi from the Planning Design Division. "We spent a lot of time over numerous discussions about what the world of Tokyo 100 years in the future would be like and compiled the results into a 'bible' to follow during production. The events and vehicles you see in the series as well as the story itself are all based on that 400-page bible."  

Yamaha Motors;Yamaha Motor employees helped with producing the show. A full-size concept model of the Y/AI was also created and will be exhibited at the upcoming Motor Expo 2024 in Thailand.

Real-World Debut at Motor Expo 2024

Yamaha took a bold step in bringing the Y/AI concept into the real world, unveiling a full-scale model at the Motor Expo 2024 in Bangkok, Thailand, held from November 29 to December 10. This marked the first time the futuristic superbike was showcased outside its anime origins, offering enthusiasts and industry professionals an up-close look at Yamaha’s forward-thinking design.

The Y/AI’s real-world model stayed true to its anime counterpart, featuring the same glowing, spokeless wheels and geometric bodywork. The exhibit highlighted the bike as more than a conceptual experiment—it became a tangible representation of Yamaha’s innovation and vision for the future. Visitors at the expo had the opportunity to see firsthand how AI-inspired design could merge aesthetics with potential functionality.

The showcase was part of Yamaha’s broader effort to connect with both its loyal customer base and a new generation of tech-savvy enthusiasts. By placing the Y/AI on such a global stage, Yamaha demonstrated its commitment to pioneering designs that could influence the next era of motorcycling. The Y/AI’s presence at the expo solidified it as a centerpiece of Yamaha’s exploration into AI-powered mobility and futuristic aesthetics.

Yamaha motors; The Y/AI concept model has the same riding position as the YZR-M1. MotoGP rider Alex Rins riding the concept model

A Legacy of Innovation

Yamaha has always been at the forefront of innovation, continually reimagining what motorcycles can achieve. With the introduction of the Y/AI superbike, the company reaffirms its role as an industry leader in design and technology. This new concept bike reflects Yamaha’s unwavering commitment to exploring the boundaries of what’s possible, fusing aesthetics, functionality, and advanced technology.

MOTOROiD

Yamaha’s journey into AI-powered motorcycles began with the MOTOROiD in 2017. This self-balancing concept bike was designed to showcase the potential of human-machine interaction. Equipped with artificial intelligence, the MOTOROiD could recognize its owner, respond to commands, and provide self-stabilization, demonstrating Yamaha’s focus on enhancing rider safety and convenience.

What made the MOTOROiD truly revolutionary was its ability to interact dynamically with its environment. By analyzing balance and posture, it could assist the rider in maintaining stability, offering a glimpse into how motorcycles might someday provide intuitive support in real-world scenarios. The MOTOROiD wasn’t a product destined for mass production, but it marked a critical step in Yamaha’s exploration of AI and its practical applications.

Y/AI

Building on the success of the MOTOROiD, the Y/AI takes Yamaha’s vision to the next level. While the MOTOROiD was focused on safety and interaction, the Y/AI expands into a broader vision of AI-driven motorcycles, blending high-performance design with futuristic technologies. Unlike the MOTOROiD, which was a demonstration of AI's immediate utility, the Y/AI is Yamaha’s exploration of long-term possibilities: intelligent navigation, real-time performance optimization, and seamless integration into smart transportation ecosystems.

The Y/AI also marks Yamaha’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of motorcycle design. Its sharp, geometric frame and spokeless, glowing wheels challenge traditional notions of what a motorcycle can look like. These advancements are a testament to Yamaha’s belief that innovation should extend beyond function to include form, reflecting the aesthetics of a tech-forward future.

A History of Breaking Barriers

Yamaha’s innovation journey extends far beyond AI. Over the years, the company has been responsible for some of the most groundbreaking advancements in motorcycling. Key milestones include:

  1. Introduction of the Monocross Suspension (1974): Yamaha redefined off-road motorcycling by introducing the Monocross suspension system. This single-shock design improved stability and handling, setting a new standard for motocross bikes.
  2. Genesis Engine Technology (1984): The debut of Yamaha’s 5-valve Genesis engine in the FZ750 revolutionized engine design, offering unmatched performance and efficiency.
  3. Ride-by-Wire Technology: Yamaha’s adoption of electronic throttle control enhanced the precision and responsiveness of its motorcycles, paving the way for advanced rider aids like traction control and multiple riding modes.
  4. R1 and R6 Superbike Innovations: Yamaha’s R-series sportbikes consistently pushed the envelope with lightweight frames, aerodynamic designs, and race-inspired performance, setting benchmarks in the industry.

A Vision

The Y/AI isn’t just a concept—it’s a reflection of Yamaha’s broader vision for the future of transportation. As AI and connectivity become increasingly important in vehicles, Yamaha aims to lead the charge by integrating these technologies into its motorcycles. The Y/AI concept explores how AI could be used to improve safety, enhance rider experiences, and even transform how motorcycles interact with their surroundings.

Yamaha’s approach isn’t solely about technology; it’s about creating a harmonious relationship between rider and machine. By blending advanced AI systems with cutting-edge design, Yamaha envisions a future where motorcycles are not just tools for transportation but intelligent partners that enhance every journey.