BMW CE 04 Electric Scooter: Price, Specs & Will It Sell?

BMW’s CE 04 Electric Scooter: A Retro-Futuristic Ride

For several years, discussions have centered around BMW’s development of electric city scooters, distinct from the electric kick scooters commonly seen. The German automotive manufacturer initially presented the BMW Motorrad Concept Link in 2017, envisioning a future for high-end micromobility solutions. Following the unveiling of their latest concept, the CE 04, in November 2020, BMW is now initiating production of this innovative vehicle.

Production and Launch Details

The company announced on Wednesday that the CE 04 will officially join its 2022 product line, with a projected global market release in the first quarter of the year. The scooter boasts an appealing aesthetic, characterized by a retro-futuristic design that evokes the visions of futuristic vehicles held in the 1970s and 1980s.

This isn’t BMW’s first foray into electric scooters. The C Evolution, released in 2014, preceded the CE 04, though it didn’t achieve significant traction in the United States market. This limited success may have been due to its premature introduction or its substantial price tag of $13,000.

Pricing and Market Positioning

The CE 04 carries a starting price of approximately $12,000. BMW’s initial Concept Link aimed to explore “a vision of future urban transportation needs,” suggesting that high sales volume may not be the primary objective. However, until BMW offers electric alternatives at price points comparable to gasoline-powered scooters – such as the Vespa, available for under $5,000 – widespread adoption in urban centers remains uncertain.

Equipped with an 8.9 kWh battery pack, a reduction from the Evolution’s 12.7 kWh capacity, BMW anticipates lower production costs and improved profitability. This is facilitated by advancements in battery technology and access to higher-quality components.

A BMW Motorrad representative explained to TechCrunch that the CE 04 is positioned within the mid-range of the motorcycle market and remains more affordable than an electric car.

“For some individuals, this scooter could serve as an accessible entry point into electric mobility, offered at a significantly reduced cost,” the representative stated.

Marketing and Target Audience

The scooter is expected to appeal strongly to enthusiasts, as highlighted in a unique press release from BMW. The CE 04 will be marketed as an urban vehicle in Europe and Asia, while in the U.S., it will target urban commuters.

Performance and Features

The CE 04 delivers a maximum output of 42 horsepower and a top speed of 75 miles per hour, enabling its use on highways. It offers an estimated range of 80 miles and can be fully charged in under two hours using a Level 2 home charger or a public charging station. Riders can select from ECO, Rain, and Road modes for optimized efficiency, with a Dynamic mode available as part of the Premium package, adding $1,650 to the price.

The scooter’s design prioritizes functionality, with the flat battery positioned centrally for a low center of gravity and a storage compartment for a helmet and charging cable, accessible while seated. A regenerative braking system recovers energy during deceleration, particularly beneficial in city driving conditions.

A 10.25-inch color screen integrated into the handlebars provides navigation and connectivity to the rider’s mobile device, complemented by a USB-C charging port.

The standard color option is “light white,” while the more striking “Magellan grey metallic avant-garde” finish is available for an additional $225. Both color schemes feature vibrant orange accents.

Future Plans

“Our CEO has indicated that the ‘04’ designation leaves room for further development, suggesting the potential for additional electrified scooter models in the future,” the spokesperson revealed.

While no specific models or timelines have been announced, the CE 04 aligns with BMW’s broader objective of delivering approximately 2 million fully electric vehicles to customers by 2025 and 10 million by 2030.

“Given the rapid pace of innovation, we may see new additions to the CE range within the next one to two years,” the spokesperson concluded.