Kawasaki just exhibited prototypes of an electric Ninja and an electric Z in Japan in mid-July, which are believed to be moped 2 models, and is expected to be developing more electric medium and large models for 2024 and beyond.
If so, what we expect to see is an evolved version of the J, which was unveiled in 2013. I would love to see it at the Japan Mobility Show (Tokyo Motor Show)!
Ten years after the launch of "J," the time was ripe!
At the Milan Show in November 2022, Kawasaki revealed its development concept for three types of motorcycles to achieve carbon neutrality (CN): electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-fueled motorcycles. For the electric and hybrid bikes, the company exhibited prototypes and announced that they would be launched in 2023 and 2024, respectively.
On the other hand, the company has stated that it aims to commercialize hydrogen bikes by 2030, and it remains unclear what will happen to the CN models announced in the most recent business plan, which calls for the introduction of more than 10 models by 2025.
Therefore, rumors are circulating about the concept of mid to large-size EVs.
There are currently two possible directions. The first is the "J," a three-wheeled motorcycle exhibited at the Tokyo Motor Show in November 2013. This concept model was much talked about for its futuristic look as if it were a motorcycle that appeared in Akira, and it featured not only electric power but also a variable riding position.
The "J" is a concept that symbolizes the future of Kawasaki, as seen in the brand video at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show. It would not be surprising if the "New J" is proposed as a realistic model at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, 10 years after its first exhibition in 2013.
Three-wheeled electric vehicle "J" (2013) [KAWASAKI] It looks like it has four wheels, but according to Kawasaki, it has three.
The power source is the GIGACELL, a high-capacity nickel-metal hydride battery that can be charged and discharged quickly.
The "J" has a variable position, and in Sport mode, the rider can enjoy sport riding in unison with the machine.
Comfort mode provides a relaxed riding position suitable for city riding. At the 2017 TMS, the bike was presented as an AI-powered connected motorcycle.
ZZR-X (2003) [KAWASAKI] It has been 10 years going back to "J". ZZ-X proposed variable positions for high-speed tourer mode, tourer mode, and sport mode.
Another possibility, a geared EV, is also expected!
Another electric motorcycle proposed by Kawasaki was the EV Project. First unveiled at the Milan show in November 2019, this supersport in Ninja 250 exterior was rated at 10 kW. And the EV dared to be equipped with a 4-speed transmission.
Kawasaki develops motorcycles in line with its "Rideology" design philosophy, even EVs, and one of the company's particular concerns, making the joy of handling a motorcycle a reality, has resulted in the creation of a transmission-equipped EV.
This EV project was also rumored to be under development for commercial production, so it may be included in the CN model, which plans to introduce more than 10 models by 2025.
In fact, Kawasaki exhibited the actual EV project vehicle at the business presentation in October 2021, which could be taken as a preview.
The Japan Mobility Show, to be held in October 2023, is a renewal of the Tokyo Motor Show into a show that proposes future mobility by inviting not only the automotive industry but also a wide range of industries. We look forward to seeing what kind of future-oriented motorcycles Kawasaki will propose here.
EV Project (2019-) [KAWASAKI] An EV research vehicle first unveiled by Kawasaki in Japan in October 2021. It was said to have a power equivalent to 20 kW (27.2 PS) when accelerating, so it is similar to the 250 cc class.
Equipped with a 4-speed return-type transmission derived from the engine vehicle, the transmission was designed to provide highly flexible torque transmission.
As a result, the company says it has achieved excellent rider feeling in line with rideology.
The battery is mounted on a special frame and charged by a 100-240V household power source or a CHAdeMO-standard quick charging system. The vehicle was estimated to weigh 219 kg and have a cruising range of 100 km.
Electric, hybrid, and hydrogen power sources were all on display at the Milano Show in November 2022. First, electric/hybrid models will be expanded to 10 models by 2025.
Kawasaki has established a unique mark for its CN models. The mark represents the company's desire to realize sustainability, development, and fun. We look forward to seeing the next model with this mark.
