Kawasaki showcased 2 electrification products, which are electric and hybrid technology. Precisely at the Suzuka 8-hour endurance race at the Suzuka Circuit, Japan on Saturday (6/8) local time. The public introduction process is surprising because both models are still in the development stage.
As reported by Autoby, fully electric or EV (Electric Vehicle) products are poured through naked motor sport products. While the hybrid technology is present in a full fairing sport motorbike display.
The two of them were not only shown to the public, but also did a road test around the Suzuka Circuit. His presence in Japan some time ago was his first debut in the world.
Revealing it from the display sector, the EV products exhibited by Kawasaki have a design and base similar to the Z250, Z300, or Z400. It can be seen from the shape of the headlamp, fender, rim, and rear body.
The new visual is in the use of the shroud component which appears more flat and is thought to be a cover or protector of the battery component. Of course, because this is an electric motor, there is no exhaust component and it eliminates the undercowl.
The body shape is not too big, similar to the Z250 to Z400. Several components in conventional models are also present, for example from a single disc brake system at the front and rear, a chain and gear package, to the seat and footrest for the pillion.
There is no official information about the specifications and electrical circuits used. But reportedly relying on a 4-speed transmission system with regenerative braking technology that allows converting kinetic energy into electricity. Its purpose is to charge the battery or maintain the remaining battery.
Still based on Autoby’s report, there are developments in the chassis sector that are now using new models and designs. The use of the new frame is explained to adjust to the electrical components, especially the battery.
While the second product that is loaded with hybrid technology comes with DNA similar to the Ninja 250, Ninja 300, or Ninja 400. Alluding to the visual, it clearly appears more muscular with the use of a new fairing and a new rear side body.
Then at the front wheels are escorted by a dual disc system that most likely has a wild performance. The design of the legs also looks advanced, where the front bow uses a diameter telescopic suspension combined with a monoshock suspension at the rear.
Carrying hybrid technology, of course, this motorbike still relies on an internal 2-cylinder DOHC engine with fuel as the main driver. There has been no official information regarding the hybrid system used, whether it uses an assist model or comes with an electric motor that allows the vehicle to run without the help of a conventional engine.
The presence of Kawasaki EV and hybrid certainly makes a new breakthrough for the global 2-wheel market. They became the first Japanese manufacturer to introduce an electrified sport-looking motorbike, where its rivals started with scooter or automatic products.
It should also be noted that Kawasaki informed the big plan that it would no longer produce gasoline motorcycles in 2035. As for their sales roadmap, the manufacturer will launch 16 new motorcycles by 2025. That number includes motorcycles with electric and hydrogen drives. Not only that, the green gang will also launch 16 types of dirt bikes or offroad with a hybrid heart.
Furthermore, the manufacturer has developed hydrogen fuel technology for internal combustion engines through the Ninja H2 product. The superbike is equipped with a direct fuel injection atomizer which is implied to be the first step towards a hydrogen-fueled motorcycle engine.
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