BMW CE 02 Electric Scooter Spied Testing in India, Could Launch Soon?

BMW Motorrad debuted its distinctively designed CE 02 electric two-wheeler a little more than a month ago. Following that, the fully electric moped was recently spotted in our country. The most recent spy photos reveal two prototypes with red license plates, hinting they were test mules. One of the two models sighted on testing here appears to have been customised with a number of extra equipment from the Highline package, which is one of many optional accessories offered by the automaker's extensive accessory catalogue. The spy photos of the battery-operated scooter were taken in Sringeri, Karnataka, and they match the license plate's registration information. The CE 02 is a globally recognised model, although it is being created by a joint venture between BMW and TVS. For those unaware, the EV is being made at that company's factory in Hosur, Tamil Nadu.

Also Read: BMW M 1000 RR Launched in India: Price, Features, Specs and More Explained

BMW CE 02 EV: Design and Features

The CE 02 electric scooter has a unique look thanks to its slim form and straightforward appearance. The electric version sports squared-off LED headlamps with integrated indicators and DRLs, a higher handlebar, split-type grab rails, an LED taillamp, a USB charging port, a 3.5-inch TFT screen, and a single-piece seat. Further, it boasts accessories such as a luggage set, top case, windscreen, as well as soft seats. In addition to disc brakes on both wheels, a single-channel BMW Motorrad ABS, automatic stability control (ASC), recuperative stability control (RSC), regenerative braking, reverse gear, and other safety systems, the new BMW Motorrad CE 02 also comes with several other features. It includes Flow and Surf as standard riding modes. The Flash is a third riding mode that is available as optional equipment with the Highline model and as an original BMW Motorrad accessory.

BMW CE 02 EV: Battery Pack 

BMW has produced the CE 02 in two performance variants—the 11kW and the 4kW—to meet the requirements of varied riders and regulations. The 4kW version does not need a bike permit, while the 11kW version does. The low-speed 4kW CE 02 variant yields about 5bhp, compared to the standard version's maximum power output of 15bhp. While the latter claims a top speed of 95km/h, the former has a top speed of 45km/h. 

Both of these variations allow for optional 1.5kW fast charging in addition to a 0.9kW standard charger. The 11kW model charges fully using the fast charger in roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes as opposed to 5 hours and 12 minutes using the standard charger. While the 4kW model takes 3 hours and 20 minutes to fully charge. The BMW CE 02 weighs 132kg in the 11kW version and 119kg in the 4kW version, and has a low seat height of 750mm. The actual range of the two-wheeler (11 kW variant), according to WMTC, is over 90-kilometre. 

BMW CE 02 EV: Hardware

The hardware components of the BMW CE 02 comprise a 220mm disc at the rear and a 239mm disc up front. It also has USD front forks and adjustable rear shocks. The scooter is equipped with 14-inch wheels with 120/80 front and 150/70 rear tyre sizes. 

Also Read: TVS X Electric Scooter Launched in India: Price, Specs, Features and More Explained

BMW CE 02 EV: India Launch Soon?

Given that the BMW CE 02 would be substantially more expensive than other EVs with comparable characteristics, it is unclear whether or not it will actually go on sale in our country. On the price front, the standard CE 02 stands at USD 7,599 (about Rs 6.28 lakh) internationally, whereas the Highline variant is priced at USD 8,474 (about Rs 7 lakh). If it happens to arrive in our home market, it is likely that the cost will be comparable to that of the recently released TVS X, which has a price tag of Rs 2.50 lakh (ex-showroom). 

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