Welcome to the future! BMW Motorrad Definition CE04 | NEWS

This morning at their #NextGen2020 event in Munich, BMW Motorrad unveiled their almost production-ready futuristic new electric scooter, the CE 04. It’s a scooter like no other currently on the road, some will love it and many will hate it just for daring to be different.

The concept for this scooter was first shown in 2017 and seemed like a distant machine from a future age, well the future is almost here.

Polarising opinions

Head of Vehicle Design for BMW Motorrad, Alexander Buckan said “We have managed to transfer many innovative elements and details of the concept into the series. The technical realities of electric drive – such as the flat energy packs in the underfloor and the compact drive train – allow us to create a highly distinctive design which defines a new, urban aesthetic and which differentiates itself clearly from conventional styling. A design that follows the basic needs for simple functionality, clear aesthetics and the digital reality today’s users live in. The new architecture has led to a visual revolution and has produced many new design themes. Maybe it will polarise, but it will definitely stand out.”

One of the key elements of the design are the flat battery packs which sit in the underbody, this will keep the centre of gravity nice and low and also allows for the side opening storage space. The elongated low body and diagonal front end are enhanced by the Mineral White metallic paint, details accentuated by matt black. The scooter’s side panels are deliberately cut to allow a view of the horizontally mounted rear shock, single-sided swinging arm, drive unit and cooling fins. The technology certainly isn’t hidden away.

VIDEO | BMW CE04 teaser

Power/range?

There are no details on the planned power output or battery range for the CE04 just yet but we’ll certainly be keeping an eye on this very interesting concept.

“A scooter is not a fun bike”

We’d like to disagree with that BMW design statement, we have lots of fun on scooters and make them do things they weren’t designed to do. This machine was designed for commutes of less than 12 km a day though, so comfort wasn’t at the top of the list of key features. BMW wanted the CE04 to be easily accessible, hence the floating bench seat which allows you to slide on from the rear if you wish and gives extra legroom for solo riders if they need it.

Plugged to life

CE04 isn’t just built to look high-tech, it takes the digital age and runs with it. Not only is the electric scooter designed to be groundbreaking but it also comes fully connected to the rider and smartphone via the largest dash on any scooter to date – a whopping 10.25-inch display.

CE04 riding apparel

Not only that but BMW have designed a whole load of CE04 riding kit, including a ‘Cut warm’ waterproof parka, complete with an integrated inductive charging field for your phone. It also has colour switchable light guides in the sleeves and hood to give greater visibility. Although to be fair if people can’t see you coming on this scooter they really shouldn’t be allowed on the roads! Other CE04 branded kit includes black riding jeans, stylish trainers and a white open face helmet.

Would you ride one? Let us know in the comments…

BMW CE04 development and details