Out of the four Japanese giants, namely, Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki, and Kawasaki, it was the latter that first announced its all-electric road map. What's more, Kawasaki has also showcased its first new hybrid tech!
Kawasaki motorcycles has showcased its new hybrid tech at an event in Japan. The prototype that was showcased is based on the Kawasaki Ninja 400 and also incorporates a hybrid drivetrain along with its usual I.C engine.
Getting into the mechanical details of the prototype, the electric motor is positioned behind the engine, with linkages straight to the gearbox. The electric motor, battery pack, engine, and gearbox are now housed in an all-new chassis, which has been modified to accommodate the new parts and components. The electric motor sources power from a 48-volt battery pack, which has been placed under the rider’s seat. The battery can be charged with the help of regenerative braking.
In the City mode, the motorcycle is completely powered by the electric motor. The prototype also features Kawasaki’s automated clutch and a servo-operated shifter tech, which is very close to the AMT tech that we have seen in budget cars. When necessary, the petrol-powered engine will take over the drivetrain.
Kawasaki has not revealed the combined power output or the battery capacity so far. The company has also kept the ‘electric only’ range a secret. We’re led to believe that Kawasaki will fine-tune the hybrid setup and extend it to its middle-weight tourers and sport motorcycles and will completely unveil the hybrid range of motorcycles sometime next year.
Kawasaki has also confirmed that the company will go all-electric by 2035. The brand has also stated that a total of 10 EVs and hybrids will be launched internationally in the next four years.
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