Reports have come out that Kawasaki have filed patents for a hybrid motorcycle design utilising a conventional engine alongside an electric motor that may run in parallel or in series with other.

In other words, when in parallel, both engine and motor deliver power whilst in series the electro. Motor drives with the combustion engine as an overall range extender and to supply extra boost should it require.

The drawings filed by Kawasaki show that the motor, engine and transmission are all housed within the same casing, with battery above and fuel tank to one side with coolant tank on other for balance.

Whilst there is no suggestion that Kawasaki will move towards final design and production, it is merely a method a protecting their intellectual property during the research and development phase and also to potential use certain aspects of the overall design in another manner in the future.