Kawasaki is planning to unveil two new hybrid-powered motorcycles after bringing the Ninja 7 and Z7 hybrid models to the market. As per the recent patent filings, the Japanese two-wheeler giant is working on hybrid versions of the Eliminator and Versys. When it comes to developing new hybrid-powered bikes, one of the biggest challenges the manufacturer is going to face is packing the combination of an electric motor, internal combustion engine (ICE), battery packs, and fuel tank in the same frame.
The Japanese automaker has already solved this issue in the Ninja 7 and Z7 hybrid models by putting the hybrid battery and electronics in a compartment beneath the rider's seat. This latest design enables the automaker to put a traditional fuel tank and airbox above the engine, whereas the electric motor is positioned above the transmission. However, this new design has a drawback as the battery’s placement makes the hybrid bikes unconventionally bigger, and in terms of appearance, they are different from the petrol-powered trims.
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The recently leaked patent drawings for the hybrid versions of the Eliminator and Versys reveal that the automaker is planning to shift the battery from below the seat to above the engine’s cylinder head, allowing extra space under the seat. This allows for a more traditional design, which is significant for the Eliminator’s look.
The upcoming Kawasaki Eliminator hybrid will come equipped with two fuel tanks on the sides of the battery set, which will provide more stance and a low centre of gravity. The Versys hybrid, on the other hand, will get a single, wider fuel tank that is wrapped over the battery set. The new hybrid models are expected to be powered by the same 451-cc parallel-twin engine equipped in the Ninja 7 and Z7 Hybrid models. The engine churns out 69 bhp of power and 60 Nm of peak torque. The unit is assisted by an e-motor, which is placed above the gearbox.
