Kawasaki Aims for Environment-Friendly Motorcycling

Faced against the irrefutable science of climate change, carbon neutrality has entered human’s vernacular with a vengeance. It is front and center at Kawasaki, with the Japanese powerhouse recently unveiling several pre-production and prototype models that cater to a new focus on the environment.

Earlier this year, Kawasaki revealed its first electric machine—the Elektrode electric balance bike for kids aged 3-8. Also breaking cover at Intermot were two electric motorcycles, a Z model and a Ninja-style machine, both featuring dual battery-powered systems. Referenced as battery electric vehicles (BEV), they are slated to be available next year in the U.S.

As a top-tier research and development project, exploring alternatives in terms of propulsion types, Kawasaki has also paraded out an innovative prototype Hybrid electric motorcycle. Branded Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), it represents Kawasaki’s first ever hybrid. Designed to quickly switch between its internal combustion engine and electric power, the HEV is set to hit dealers in 2024.

Perhaps most intriguing among Kawasaki’s immersion into alternative power and carbon neutrality is its experimentation with hydrogen power. The company has revealed a Supercharged Ninja H2 engine that uses direct injection with compressed gaseous hydrogen. The experimental engine was presented as a concept for the Ninja H2 platform.

Kawasaki has also created Go with Green Power, an initiative that sets in-house goals for achieving carbon neutrality within a strategic time frame.

Kawasaki plans to unveil some 30 new internal combustion engine motorcycles over model years 2024 and 2025 while continuing to do research and development on a host of alternative fuel machines. The company has expressed its desire to expand current technology to meet customer’s needs while maintaining an environmentally friendly line of products.