It's confirmed. Tokyo will ban the sale of new gasoline-powered motorcycles. The irony is monumental: the decision comes from the heart of the country that shaped global motorcycle excellence.
But let's set the record straight right away: Japan isn't banning internal combustion engine motorcycles. This is a local measure, decided by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, which will only restrict the sale of new gasoline-powered models by 2035. The use of existing motorcycles remains permitted. No nationwide ban. No confiscations. No immediate revolution in the streets. But symbolically? It's a seismic event.
While the European Union has already softened its timetable for phasing out internal combustion engines in light of market realities, Tokyo is sticking to its guns: the end of gasoline car sales in 2030, end of sales of petrol motorcycles in 2035.
Japan, for its part, is adopting a mixed technological strategy. Motorcycles were not affected by the national bans. Tokyo, however, is grouping them with cars and trucks. A strong political choice. Perhaps too strong.
The weak point? The lack of precise figures. This is where the case becomes fragile. The metropolitan government acknowledges not having detailed data on the actual share of motorcycles in the city's CO₂ emissionsYes, transport accounts for approximately 20% of emissions. But within that figure, motorcycles remain marginal compared to cars.
And yet, the ban fallsWithout a precise study quantifying the concrete environmental gain of a total switch to electric.
The market is not ready for this ban in Tokyo… without a clear framework
Today, only 12% of new motorcycles sold in Tokyo are electric. The goal is 35% by 2030, and then 100% by 2035.
Problem? Limited range, higher prices, supply concentrated almost exclusively on scooters, battery exchange network still rare.
To accelerate the transition, Tokyo plans more than 18 billion yen in subsidies in 2026, with up to 480 000 yen assistance by electric motorcycle.
A massive incentive policy. But one that looks more like a disguised obligation than a natural market adoption.
The country that is home Honda, Yamaha , Kawasaki et Suzuki, manufacturers who dominate the world stage, see its capital turn its back on the motorization that built this reputation.
Of course, these giants are already developing electric models. But the global motorcycle economy remains largely based on internal combustion engines. Tokyo therefore takes a more radical position than most major industrial powers.
Another area of uncertainty: no sanctions have yet been defined. How will dealerships be monitored? What will happen if the targets are not met? What about imports?
The administration itself indicates that these details will be decided later. This vagueness fuels skepticism.
Tokyo is taking a strong environmental stance, even if it means getting ahead of the market. This decision is consistent with its carbon neutrality strategy. But technically, commercially, and industrially, the foundations remain fragile. Banning something without precisely demonstrating the measurable impact… Imposing it before the infrastructure is ready… Setting a 100% target when the market is capped at 12%… It's audacious. Or risky.
One thing is certain: if the capital of Japan actually manages to fully electrify its fleet of new motorcycles by 2035This will become a global model. If it fails, it will be a stark reminder that a century-old industry cannot be transformed by decree alone. A revolution is on the horizon. It remains to be seen whether it will be technological… or purely political.
