Moving to the future

A big step in Kawasaki's carbon neutrality plans

Seeking to “Change the Game”, the all new Z 7 Hybrid offers a unique window into a world of future motorcycles.

At the heart of the Z 7 Hybrid is the innovative combination of a brand new 451cc parallel twin, water-cooled four stroke engine – complete with manual or automatically selected gears – and a traction motor plus battery; a futuristic combination that offers a number of new riding experiences plus an engine power of 43.5 kw rising to an impressive hybrid net power of 51.1kw thanks to “e-boost”.

In terms of dimensions, the Z 7 Hybrid is a mid-size package offering 650cc to 700cc class overall performance with the instant acceleration to rival that of a 1,000cc-class supersport model from a standing start (with Kawasaki’s e-boost function already seen on their EV machines), fuel economy on par with the 250cc-class and button-shift sport riding. In addition, riders can switch between three riding modes (SPORT-HYBRID, ECO-HYBRID, EV**) that each offer a distinct riding character as they accommodate a wide range of riding situations.

Other innovations include idling stop whereby the internal combustion engine stops at a halt to save fuel and reduce emissions plus Automatic Launch Position Finder (ALPF) which – when selected – automatically selects first gear at standstill plus a forward and reverse “walk mode” to aid low speed manoeuvring and parking.

Utilising a specially designed version of Kawasaki’s familiar trellis type chassis, the “packaging” of the gasoline engine and 9kw max traction motor reveals a compact twinned power unit with the 48V lithium ion battery near the centre point of the chassis to idealise weight distribution. And in terms of styling, the Ninja 7 Hybrid is resplendent in a unique HEV treatment combining a matt lime green under cowl with silver and black bodywork destined – like its engineering innovations – to set this bike apart from the common herd.

Ergonomically, the relaxed and sporty riding position eases the rider towards the high-grade cockpit and carefully considered layout of the switchgear; both designed to be intuitive and to inspire confidence. For the meters, full-colour TFT instrumentation includes smartphone connectivity via a custom version of the RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience.

As the first of its kind, the Ninja 7 Hybrid sets the bar for HEV motorcycling. Offering the best elements of ICE and EV models, and able to navigate both the urban jungle and countryside backroads, this revolutionary new model is greater than the sum of its parts. With its exciting character and numerous innovative features for riders to explore, the Ninja 7 Hybrid truly ushers in a new era in riding experiences.

The Ninja 7 Hybrid will be available in the UK from April 2024, with prices to be confirmed nearer the time.

* Mass production models (excluding scooters) from a major power sports manufacturer as of October 6, 2023, per Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. research.

Strong hybrid systems combine an internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor for powerful riding, and because of their large battery capacity they are able to run on electricity alone.

** The Ninja 7 Hybrid’s EV Mode may be helpful for certain situations where quiet riding is appropriate, such as in residential areas or in parking garages. Speed and range are limited.

Commuting Greenly

Undeniable Z heritage.

Kawasaki reveals carbon neutrality plans not only for the machines that they produce going forwards, but for the whole of the infrastructure of the now independant motorcycle division. A long term plan, but a greener future none the less.

Hybrid is only one part of that….Watch this space for their latest hydrogen fueled power plants…

The Z Philosophy

Beauty in technology.

Blending the sharp, aggressive looks of a Z Supernaked with the clean, high-class image of a hybrid machine, the Z7 Hybrid’s strong, muscular design highlights its street riding potential while leaving a powerful impression. Though it is a completely new type of motorcycle, the styling shares sugomi elements with other models in the Z series, that make it clear this is part of the Z family. The functional beauty of the under cowl’s cooling ducts is complemented by HEV elements like the translucent right side cover and the “Hybrid” logo on the motor covers.

This is not the end of the combustion engine.

30 internal combustion engined models are due for 2024/5

At the heart of the Z 7 Hybrid is the innovative combination of a brand new 451cc parallel twin, water-cooled four stroke engine – complete with manual or automatically selected gears – and a traction motor plus battery; a futuristic combination that offers a number of new riding experiences plus an engine power of 43.5 kw rising to an impressive hybrid net power of 51.1kw thanks to “e-boost”.

While the electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered technology was the main thrust of Kawasaki’s presentation, the company reiterated that it isn’t giving up completely on gas-powered products, confirming it will introduce about 30 internal combustion engined motorcycles for the 2024 and 2025 model years.

One of these is this new Z Hybrid that is expected during 2024 that utilises a combination of a petrol internal combustion engine and an electric motor, switching seamlessly between the two when required.

All of this, whilst they are also furiously busy chasing the greener possibilities of Hydrogen powered motorcycle engines. A point to note that Kawasaki have been researching this for quite some time already. Having found an exceptionally green way in which to turn water into Hydrogen, they have also designed and produced containing vessels that will hold the gas at -256°C. The optimum storage temperature that reduces the volume of the gas 8 fold.

Trellis Frame

Orthodox sport motorcycle chassis design thinking was used to carefully arrange all the components of the hybrid power unit (ICE, traction motor, battery pack, ISG) in a lightweight trellis frame to achieve the light, nimble handling that Kawasaki sport motorcycles are known for. Utilising a specially designed version of Kawasaki’s familiar trellis type chassis, the “packaging” of the gasoline engine and 9kw max traction motor reveals a compact twinned power unit with the 48V lithium ion battery near the centre point of the chassis to idealise weight distribution.

Connectivity

Rideology!!

4.3” all-digital TFT colour instrumentation gives the cockpit a high-tech, high-grade appearance, while being able to connect to the bike wirelessly offers an enhanced motorcycling experience. This includes smartphone connectivity via a custom version of the RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience.

Available in abundance

Walk Mode

Kawasaki have thought of everything. Right down to the ease of car park manouvering, ensuring that the responsive throttle can’t get the better of the rider when moving at low speed.

Then there is the other end of the scale:
In addition to increasing overall output to that of a 650cc-class machine, with e-boost activated the Z7 Hybrid can initially out-accelerate a Ninja ZX-10R from a standing start under certain conditions.

Like all Kawasaki motorcycles, the Z7 Hybrid was designed to be fun to ride and fun to control. In addition to the responsive, rider-friendly hybrid power unit and light, agile chassis, riders can look forward to new experiences like powerful acceleration with e-boost, and button-shifting backed by Kawasaki’s proprietary logic and unique electronically controlled transmission.