The Japanese manufacturer has just unveiled its future hydrogen motorcycle, the Ninja H2 H2. It will, however, not be equipped with an electric motor, but with a good old thermal one.
While many brands have launched into electric motorcycles, Kawasaki is taking everyone a bit against the grain with its new H2 H2. Rather revolutionary in its design, its combustion engine will be powered by hydrogen. A model completely on the margins of its electrification plan, which should bring 10 models to its range by 2025.
Reinventing the thermal motorcycle using hydrogen
If Kawasaki has chosen to move towards hydrogen as a fuel, it is not to put obstacles in the way, far from it. This is because it offers a more attractive weight/power ratio than an electric powertrain, weighed down by its batteries. Refueling is also done much more quickly, like filling up with gasoline.
The Ninja H2 H2 is based on the H2 SX model and will therefore allow the biker to retain the classic sensations of the motorcycle: engine roar, gear changes, returns to the exhaust pipes, etc. Everything that electric cannot offer, despite the existence of high-performance models like those offered by the Zero Motorcycles brand.
Advanced technology at the service of performance
At the heart of the H2 engine lies a real innovation: a compressor with exceptional performance, since it is capable of reaching 130,000 rpm. A unique device of its kind, which allows the engine to swallow an immense quantity of air, because hydrogen requires a lot of it to burn correctly. This one is a 1000cc four-cylinder3, automatically bringing the H2 H2 into the motorcycle category very efficient.
The first images of the H2 concept show a rather massive motorcycle. On the sides, we can see the two large tanks where the hydrogen is stored at high pressure. These two compartments are reminiscent of travel bags, and slightly break the sporty line of the motorcycle. We can not have everything. On the other hand, we can ask ourselves the question of safety in the event of a fall.
For the moment, no information has filtered on the performance and autonomy of the model. The tests will take place next year and will provide the first data. Looking forward to the results! Kawasaki, like the Z H2 and its supercharged engine launched in 2020, shows that it is still capable of thinking outside the box.
Source : Futura Sciences
14