Kawasaki previews electric and hybrid prototypes at Suzuka ahead of EICMA debut

While most of the major two-wheeler makers are still conceptualizing battery-powered technologies, Kawasaki has shown that it's a step ahead in the EV domain. While the company has previously introduced its hybrid-electric motorcycles to the world with projects that date back to late 2020 (just a year after debuting its all-electric prototype at EICMA 2019), the company has taken the world by surprise by showcasing near-production versions of both electric platforms at Japan’s legendary Suzuka Circuit.

Kawasaki hit the circuit with its two new prototypes providing the fans with a sneak peek preview, as well as, a listen of the new electric-aided two-wheelers. The showcased smaller standard bike was seen featuring Z-range styling with the company's electric-only motor, while the other model featured Ninja-range styling with the hybrid EV (HEV) technology.

The electric-only Z-range of bike was seen whizzing past the pits with an audible electric hum. It was shortly followed by the Ninja-range hybrid prototype that looks considerably buffed up thanks to its dual-mill configuration. The HEV logo planted on the side fairing of the model is a bold hint at the bike's hybrid powerplant which was also reported to be making a faint whir from its electric motor and soon as the rider cracked the throttle open the internal combustion engine was kicked into gear as the bike zipped past the stands.

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While this preview of the model made the company's progress with these bikes obvious, sadly Kawasaki didn't roll out the official tech specs of the bikes just yet. However, reports uncovering the VIN decoder information have hinted that the entry-level, all-electric Kawasaki could push out power in the vicinity of 15 horses. Should this bike make into production, that would make it comparable to the company's Z125's performance.

Kawasaki is most likely to uncover details of these bikes later year around EICMA 2022. These models could also make it to the Indian market since Kawasaki has a tradition of launching the majority of its products in India.