TWIR: Japan Brands Team Up On Electric Development

It’s time again for TWIR – The Week in Review. This time it’s for the week of Aug. 30 through Sept. 5. TWIR is a compilation of regional, national and sometimes international news that didn’t get a full post but warrants sharing.

Here’s goes with TWIR:

Japanese “Big Four” Electric Collaboration

When electric motorcycles get mentioned, the brands Zero and Energica come to mind, along with Harley-Davidson’s LiveWire model. Now, Japan’s “Big Four” manufacturers are teaming up to work on swappable battery technology to help bring electric models to market.

Actually, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha revealed a joint arrangement last year but they have now announced that they are launching the e-Yan Osaka trial. Students and staff at Osaka University will ride e-motorcycles and use battery swap stations on campus. The purpose is to develop common specifications that can be used across the brands.

The trial is expected to last a year.

E-bike For The Street From Husqvarna

Husqvarna is said to be targeting 2022 for the release of the E-Pilen, an electric street model that will reportedly be available with either a 4kw or 10kw motor.

Styling-wise, the E-Pilen will fit right in with the company’s current Vitpilen and Svartpilen gas models.

Recalls By BMW

BMW has issued a couple of recalls. One involves leaking calipers on 9,392 of its recent R 1250 GS, R 1250 GS Adventure, R 1250 RT, S 1000 RR and S 1000 XR models.

The other recall for 447 units of its 2021 R-series models for problems with tire pressure labels.

Concerned owners may call customer service at 800-525-7417.

Arizona Offers Helmet Assistance Program

The state of Arizona, which doesn’t require riders over age 18 to wear a helmet, is nonetheless helping to get more riders to don lids.

The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety is providing a $50,000 grant to the Arizona Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Foundation, which has started a “Financial Assistance Helmet Program.”

With a $50 donation to AMSAF, riders will get a $125 voucher good on the purchase of a $200 or more DOT-certified helmet, with dealers and stores giving an additional 25 percent off the MSRP of the helmet.

There are a few conditions. The vouchers are not valid on already discounted or discontinued helmet models.

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