- New patents filed for a cruiser and an adventure tourer
- Likely to use the same powertrain as the Ninja 7 and Z7 hybrids
Kawasaki plans to democratise it's hybrid motorcycle tech beyond the Ninja 7 and the Z7 models. According to new patent filings, the Japanese bike maker is working on hybrid versions of the Versys and Eliminator models.
The biggest challenge for hybrid two-wheelers is to fit the combination of an ICE engine, electric motor, fuel tank, and a battery pack, into a sleek motorcycle frame. The Kawasaki Ninja 7 and Z7 solve this by placing a battery box under the seat. Although it is a functional design, the motorcycles look bulky and awkward.
According to the new patent images, Kawasaki's solution for the Versys and Eliminator hybrids is to move the battery above the engine, freeing up space under the seat for a more traditional design. This is particularly crucial for the low-slung cruiser look of the Eliminator. Meanwhile, the Versys will also benefit from this arrangement, with increased clearance for its long-travel suspension.
The patent filings further reveal that Kawasaki will equip the Eliminator hybrid with two fuel tanks on either side of the battery pack for a wider stance and a low centre of gravity. The Versys hybrid, meanwhile, will utilize a single, wider fuel tank that wraps over the battery.
Although the mechanical specifications of these upcoming bikes aren't known yet, we expect Kawasaki to use the same hybrid powertrains as the Ninja 7 and Z7. Thus, expect these bikes to be powered by a 451cc, parallel-twin engine, assisted by an electric motor that produces 69bhp and 60Nm.
By democratizing the hybrid system across multiple models, Kawasaki could be looking at amortization of its R&D costs. And it won't come as a surprise if Kawasaki brings more hybrid models in the future.
