BMW Motorrad Vision DC concept previews electric future

BMW's radical Vision DC concept gives an early preview of the brand's future electric motorcycles. 

BMW Motorrad has showcased the Vision DC Roadster concept. This cutting edge concept sets the precedent for BMW’s electrified future, as the company plans to bring as many as 25 models (including cars) by 2023.

According to BMW, the Vision DC Roadster is a ‘highly emotional naked bike with electric drive’. To show it’s actually the case, BMW designers have added some signature design elements to the concept. They’ve retained the classic ‘boxer’ engine architecture in the concept, albeit instead of cylinders, the casing houses a longitudinally oriented battery. To cool the electric housing, there are two side elements with cooling ribs and integrated ventilators, which BMW says are reminiscent of the boxer engine of the R 32 from 1923. The cylinder-shaped electric motor is placed below the battery pack and is connected to the shaft that sends power to the rear wheel.

The design and overall appearance of the Vision DC scream lightness. The frame is aluminium, with a tubular frame structure above it. It also incorporates carbon fibre bits, which not only look good but also allow substantial weight-saving. There’s no denying that the Vision DC concept looks from the future, but BMW says there are some hallmark traits that make it instantly recognisable. The front-end features U-shaped LEDs and sharply raked forks, while the rear gets two C-shaped LED elements. Additionally, the Metzeler tyres are fitted with five fluorescent elements that light up in the dark.

BMW hasn’t divulged any details of the powertrain of the bike so far, however, it's safe to assume that it'll be electrifying. Among other highlights, there’s a functional two-piece suit for the rider that features invisible protectors and an asymmetrical rucksack vest fixed to the jacket by magnets.

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