Kawasaki, known for its iconic motorcycles is set to broaden its presence in the Indian market with an expanded portfolio offering customers a diverse range of options. The Ninja 500 and its cruiser companion, the Eliminator, are two new models that the firm recently unveiled. Notably, Kawasaki India opts not to use the 400 or 500 suffixes with the Eliminator.
Patenting of Innovative Models: Ninja 7 Hybrid and Z E-1
In a significant move, Kawasaki has patented two groundbreaking motorcycles in India: the Ninja 7 Hybrid and the Z E-1, the company's first all-electric production bike. While patents from other manufacturers might be seen as routine, Kawasaki's designs hint at exciting possibilities raising speculation about their potential launch in India. Of the two, the Ninja 7 Hybrid is anticipated to make its debut first, leveraging the same platform as the Ninja 500 and Eliminator.
The Ninja 7 Hybrid: Power and Performance
Sharing the platform with its siblings, the Ninja 7 Hybrid boasts a parallel twin-cylinder DOHC 4V liquid-cooled engine, capable of delivering 44.7 bhp of peak power and 42.6 Nm of peak torque. What sets it apart is the incorporation of an additional electric motor elevating the combined peak power to around 60 bhp. Equipped with sophisticated shift paddles on the left side switchgear, the Ninja 7 Hybrid offers a more refined riding experience compared to its predecessors.
Potential Launch of the Z E-1: Electric Innovation
While the Ninja 7 Hybrid is poised for an Indian debut, the fate of the Z E-1 remains uncertain. Weighing significantly more than its ICE counterparts, the Z E-1 presents unique challenges in terms of market positioning and pricing. With a fully electric powertrain and removable batteries, the Z E-1 offers a range of 72 km and a top speed of around 80 km/h. However, given India's price-sensitive market dynamics, Kawasaki may prioritize other models over the Z E-1.
Market Positioning and Pricing
Currently sold via the CBU route, the Ninja 500 and Eliminator are priced at Rs. 5.25 lakh and Rs. 5.62 lakh respectively. If launched in India, the Ninja 7 Hybrid is expected to command a price close to the Rs. 10 lakh mark, positioning it as a premium offering in Kawasaki's lineup. As for the Z E-1, its global pricing places it above the Ninja 650, making its Indian launch less likely, at least for the time being. However, fans should prepare for additional developments possibly including launches before the year ends.