In Japan, Kawasaki has presented, in the world’s first public display, its motorcycle equipped with a hydrogen internal combustion engine that emits water.
On July 20, Kawasaki held the world's first public demonstration of its hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycle at the Suzuka Circuit in Suzuka, Japan, to make the motorcycle run on hydrogen instead of using conventional fuel to make many modifications, especially to the engine.
The hydrogen engine relies on The 998cc Supercharged In-Line Four engine is found in the Ninja H2 motorcycle. From Kawasaki. This has been modified to allow direct injection of hydrogen fuel into the cylinders. Kawasaki's robust body is designed to accommodate hydrogen fuel storage and an onboard hydrogen fuel supply system.
The hydrogen ICE motorcycle was designed and built as part of research that began in March 2023, with testing starting this year and culminating in a public demonstration.
Kawasaki roars like a gasoline engine, but emits water vapor.
When the driver accelerates, the Kawasaki hydrogen continues to roar and vibrate, despite not using conventional fuel. This is because the engine mechanics and combustion process are similar to a gasoline engine.
During its world premiere in Japan, the manufacturer explained that its main by-product is water, which comes out as vapor. This makes hydrogen engines cleaner than gasoline engines, which emit pollutants such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides (NOx).
Carbon Neutrality by 2030 Initiative
Kawasaki admits it. During the demonstration, a small amount of engine oil is burned with hydrogen.But he adds that this only produces a very small amount of carbon dioxide. However, they claim that the overall emissions are much lower than those of conventional gasoline engines.
Kawasaki Motors is currently researching and developing a hydrogen ICE motorcycle for commercial use. This is part of the company's carbon neutrality initiative for motorcyclists in the early 2030s.
The manufacturer notes that the timing of commercial availability may vary depending on the hydrogen fuel supply infrastructure and the legal regulatory status in each country.
