Need to zip around your vast estate or perhaps patrol the neighborhood for your HOA? Well, if you are in the US or Canada, you can look to zipping around in a Kawasaki. Not on a mechanical four-legged (though that will be super cool) or on a hydrogen-powered Ninja, but on a more down-to-earth, carry-four, and also eco-friendly and arguably less dangerous than hydrogen Kawasaki NAV 4e Personal Transport Vehicles. The Kawasaki NAV 4e series is the motorcycle/ATV maker’s first electric four-wheeled vehicle, and it is now available in the United States and Canada.
Designed with community navigation in mind (hence the “NAV”), the NAV 4e isn’t trying to be a sports car. It’s more of a golf cart with delusions of off-roading, and that’s not a bad thing. It features a steel ladder frame and suspension that benefits from Kawasaki’s experience with side-by-sides, offering a ride that’s smooth enough for suburban roads but sturdy enough for the occasional gravel path. Power comes from a simple but reliable 4.0 kW induction motor, with a peak output of 10.7 kW. Acceleration is gentle, which is perfect when your main goal is not knocking over trash cans.
The standard model runs on a good ol’ lead-acid battery, while the LE and LIMITED variants go lithium-ion for longer life and less weight. All models seat four, come with roomy interiors, and even a TFT display. The LIMITED throws in niceties like an audio system with app compatibility and floor lighting, just in case you need mood lighting during a late-night snack run.
Other features include a rear fold-flat seat, off-road-style wheels with chunky 23-inch (584 mm) tires, multiple storage compartments, and available accessories like LED pod lights, enclosures, cargo racks, and a flip-down windshield.
Pricing starts at around US$12,999, if anyone’s interested.
Images: Kawasaki [US].
