- Powered by two 1.5kWh batteries
- Features LED illumination, smartphone connectivity, and more
- Unlikely to be launched in India
Kawasaki has launched its maiden electric motorcycle line-up, the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 in the US. The Japanese EVs pack the same hardware, battery motor, and features. However, the only differences between the two are the design and pricing. So, let’s look at what the two new Kawasaki electric motorcycles on offer.
On the design front, the new Kawasaki Ninja e-1 borrows inspiration from its petrol siblings. So, it shares many similarities all over as it gets a split headlight topped by a transparent visor, large side fairing, and a split seat with a tall tail. Meanwhile, the Z e-1 is a naked motorcycle equipped with a single pod headlight, small tank extensions, and a split seat.
Powering the Kawasaki electric duo is a pair of removable 1.5kWh batteries linked to a 9kW motor. The claimed range for the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 is 65km. However, Kawasaki has yet to specify whether the aforementioned range is for a single battery or both units. The top speed is claimed to be 104kmph with the boost feature in Road mode. Then, both EVs use a chain drive system. The features list, too, for the Kawasaki Z e-1 and the Ninja e-1 is quite extensive. Along with LED illumination, they get two ride modes (Eco and Road), eco-boost, walk mode, ABS, TFT, smartphone connectivity, and Ergo Fit as well.
On the hardware front, these bikes ride on telescopic front forks and a preload-adjustable gas-charged rear shock. The braking hardware includes a 290mm front and 220mm rear disc with ABS. The setup is mounted on 17-inch alloys wrapped in 100/80 front and 130/70 rear tyres.
The asking price for the Kawasaki Ninja e-1 is USD 7,599 (approximately Rs. 6.32 lakh, sans taxes) and the Z e-1 costs USD 7,299 (approximately Rs. 6.07 lakh). Neither of them will make their debut in India anytime soon.