Yamaha unveils its first flex‑fuel motorcycle in India, the FZ Blue Flex, capable of running on ethanol blends from E20 up to E85. Powered by a 149 cc engine, it is priced at an ex‑showroom ₹1,24,240.
Key Takeaways
- Yamaha launches India’s first flex‑fuel motorcycle
- Runs on ethanol blends from E20 to E85
- 149 cc, 8.6 kW output, priced at ₹1.24 Lakh
New Delhi, July 10, 2026 – Yamaha has officially introduced its inaugural flex‑fuel two‑wheeler, the FZ Blue Flex, to the Indian market. Designed for riders who demand both performance and a greener fuel option, the bike can operate on any ethanol‑petrol mix between E20 and E85.
Flex‑Fuel Landscape in India
Flex‑fuel technology allows a vehicle to run on varying concentrations of ethanol without hardware changes. India’s push for ethanol as a renewable fuel aims to reduce crude‑oil dependence and curb carbon emissions. While several global manufacturers have rolled out flex‑fuel cars, the two‑wheeler segment has seen limited offerings. Yamaha’s entry is set to accelerate competition and broaden consumer choice.
Technical Specs and Features
The FZ Blue Flex is equipped with a 149 cc single‑cylinder air‑cooled fuel‑injected engine delivering 8.6 kW (≈11.7 hp) and 12.8 Nm of torque. It is paired with a five‑speed gearbox, ensuring smooth power delivery across the E‑blend range. The bike retains the classic FZ styling but upgrades to full‑LED projector headlamps, a muscular fuel tank, telescopic front fork, and rear swing‑arm suspension. Additional highlights include a single‑channel ABS, an LCD instrument console, and LED rear lamps. However, features such as navigation, traction control, or Bluetooth connectivity are omitted.
Pricing and Market Positioning
Yamaha has set the ex‑showroom price at ₹1,24,240, while the standard petrol‑only variant is priced at ₹1,14,760. The flex‑fuel version thus commands a premium of roughly ₹9,480, a cost that can be offset by lower ethanol fuel prices over the bike’s lifespan. Presently, rival brands lack comparable high‑ethanol capable models, granting Yamaha a first‑mover advantage in this niche.
Future Outlook
As India scales up ethanol production, higher blends such as E85 will become more accessible. Yamaha’s adoption of flex‑fuel technology not only aligns with the country’s environmental goals but also offers a long‑term cost‑effective solution for riders. Industry analysts project that, should ethanol pricing remain competitive with petrol, flex‑fuel motorcycles could capture 15‑20 % of the market within the next five years.
