Yamaha reveals a 476-HP in-wheel hypercar motor

After announcing the development of a wide range of electric motors rated at 48–272 HP (35–200 kW) in July 2020, Yamaha Motor Company has now added a high-end option to the lineup.

The company claims that the innovative design boasts an especially impressive metric-horsepower-to-weight ratio, without going into further specifics. Compact dimensions make it possible to mount one motor per wheel, ending up with over 1,900 HP (1,400 kW) total. Examples of hypercars capable of such power include Rimac C_Two (1,914 HP / 1,408 kW), Lotus Evija (2,000 HP / 1,471 kW), and Aspark Owl (2,012 HP / 1,480 kW).

Yamaha will hold an official presentation in Yokohama in late May, but automakers will be invited to leave their pre-orders later this month.

Alfa Romeo 4C was the latest show car to display Yamaha’s new powertrain last summer (peek inside our gallery and watch the video if you’d like more details). It remains to be seen what kind of vehicle will roll out onto the stage this time around.