Kawasaki Electric Prototype is the first look into the company’s upcoming range of bikes and the evolution they will bring…
So, Kawasaki finally unveiled their first and new proper Electric Streetfighter motorcycle at the Intermot 2022 event in Germany.
Though the Japanese manufacturer has planned to introduce at least 10 new EVs by 2025, they have started with the introduction of a new model, which they are describing as a ‘Production Prototype’.
This naked model, in particular, was seen back in August at the Suzuka track where Kawasaki Japan showcased the Z naked electric bike alongside the Ninja Hybrid prototype. This time, Kawasaki Europe wheeled out this naked electric production-prototype model donning the Z-styling very similar to the Z900 ICE model.
The new Z electric prototype showcase was accompanied by a lengthy speech by Kawasaki Motors Europe’s MD, Mr. Masaya Tsurono, which touched on the future plans of the company – which included both electric and hybrid electric vehicles. He further specified that this prototype is only intended for display during the showcase, and will ‘form the basis of an actual future production machine’.
Also read – 2-Wheeler EV Sales Sep 2022: OLA Snatches Top Spot From Hero Electric
Coming to the ‘Production Prototype’ bike – the Z-styled naked electric motorcycle exudes a similar styling to other nakeds from the manufacturer. It sports similar features such as an aggressive Z900-inspired LED headlight, the same triangular tail-light seen on Kawasaki’s other nakeds and the alloy wheels similar to the Ninja 300.
As of now, Kawasaki have not revealed any technical specifications of these upcoming electric motorcycles. However, looking at the prototype itself, we can see that the bike is equipped with a mid-mounted motor paired with a surprising chain final drive. The said electric motor is mounted inside what appears to be an all-new frame that has the battery pack placed where traditionally an engine would sit. Additionally, a leaked VIN document suggested that an electric Kawasaki capable of producing 11 kW (14.75 HP) is in the works.
This showcase at the Intermot 2022 is an official announcement from Kawasaki entering the electric domain of global two-wheelers. As stated earlier, the company is aiming to launch at least 10 new EVs by 2025 in various regions of the globe. This timeline is very similar to another Japanese manufacturer, Honda, who also announced their electric ambitions to the world recently.
