- Design patents for both hybrid Kawasaki bikes have been registered
- Powered by an ICE and electric powertrain
- Already available internationally
Kawasaki recently launched the Ninja 7 and the Z e-1 hybrid motorcycles overseas. Now, we have come across their patent drawings on the web. This hints at two things – either the Japanese bikemaker plans to introduce both models in India, or the patents have been filed for the sake of it.
Speaking of the Ninja 7 Hybrid, it gets a 451cc parallel-twin engine linked to a 9kW electric motor and a 48-volt battery pack. The said combination allows the bike to belt out 58bhp which is further bumped up to 69bhp using the e-Boost mode. The Ninja 7’s feature list includes idle stop function and walk mode. This allows low-speed reverse and forward movement. Then, there are three riding modes – EV, Eco Hybrid and Sport Hybrid. It also gets a full-colour TFT screen borrowed from the Ninja e-1.
Then, the Z e-1 hybrid sports a single pod headlight, small tank extensions, and a split seat. Powering it is a pair of 1.5kWh batteries linked to a 9kW motor. The claimed range for the Z e-1 is 65km, which we think is from a single pack. Kawasaki has equipped the Z e-1 hybrid with a boost mode that gives it a top speed of 104kmph. The features on it include LED illumination, two ride modes (Eco and Road), eco-boost, walk mode, ABS, TFT, smartphone connectivity, and Ergo Fit as well.
The Z e-1 costs USD 7,299 (approximately Rs. 6.07 lakh) whereas the Ninja 7 hybrid is priced at USD 12,499 (approximately Rs. 10.34 lakh). It would be quite interesting to see Kawasaki’s pricing strategy for both bikes for the Indian market if the duo debuts here.
