Electric Motorcycles: Aprilia and Kawasaki Accelerate in Milan

No serial models yet, but prototypes demonstrating that Kawasaki and Aprilia are actively preparing an electric range.

Already widely adopted by many startups, electric propulsion is also starting to interest major motorcycle manufacturers. Kawasaki and Aprilia once again demonstrated this at EICMA in Milan, with several battery-powered motorcycle concepts.

At Aprilia, the electric transition is in its early stages. The ELECTRICa project unveiled in Milan offers a preview of what the Italian brand plans to offer its youngest customers. Described as light and agile, the motorcycle was created with the help of Piaggio, which owns Aprilia and has been working on electric technology for several years. Its centrally positioned motor is connected to the wheel by a standard chain. The LCD instrumentation, hands-free ignition system, and various riding aids firmly place it in the modern era.

Electric, hybrid, and hydrogen for Kawasaki

On Kawasaki’s side, not just one but two electric motorcycles are showcased in Milan: the Z EV and the Ninja EV. Both belong to the 125cc equivalents family and feature a double removable 3 kWh battery. Like Aprilia, Kawasaki does not specify the power or range of its bikes. However, the Japanese manufacturer has announced that it plans to start selling them in Europe in 2023.

Kawasaki also displays on its stand a Ninja HEV with a hybrid engine. For now, it is only a prototype, but a serial model is already scheduled. It is expected to arrive in the lineup during 2024.

The fourth and final novelty is a large motorcycle with a hydrogen-powered combustion engine. This prototype was developed from the Ninja H2. The commercialization of such a motorcycle seems unlikely in the short term.

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