New BMW CE 02 electric scooter - First impression

BMW Motorrad India has unveiled the new CE 02, an electric scooter with a funky design. This launch follows the introduction of the CE 04 in the market in July this year. Interestingly, the CE 02 has been brought in via the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route, and TVS Motor Company is producing it at its Tamil Nadu facility.

BMW CE 02 Design & Ergonomics

As seen in the pictures, the CE 02 resembles a futuristic vehicle straight out of a sci-fi movie, thanks to its flamboyant, minimalistic, and youthful design. Given that design, this is clearly aimed Gen-Z buyers and young urban riders. That said, it features a double-loop tubular frame and a single-sided swingarm with minimal body panels, resulting in a lightweight structure.

In terms of ergonomics, the electric scooter offers a comfortable seating posture. Riders can sit upright without leaning forward too much. However, the seat, being quite narrow, may start to feel uncomfortable after an hour or two of riding. You can reposition your feet onto the pillion's footpegs for a more committed riding posture. That said, there's limited space for a pillion when the rider sits upright, especially if the rider is over six feet tall, but with some adjustment, it is possible to accommodate a passenger.

BMW CE 02 Range, Power Output & Charging

The CE 02 is powered by two removable 1.96kWh batteries, which together provide an ICAT-certified range of 108km. These batteries are connected to an electric motor that generates 15PS and 55Nm of torque, allowing the CE 02 to accelerate from 0 to 50km/h in a claimed three seconds.

The scooter picks up speed steadily in its standard modes, but the Flash mode unlocks an exciting, blistering pace that's fun to experience. Regenerative braking is available in both the Flow and optional Flash modes, offering a range of mild to aggressive intervention and recuperation. However, the Surf mode does not include regenerative braking.

Customers can opt for an optional Highline package, which adds several features and a faster charger. With the standard charger, the battery charges from 0 to 100% in just over five hours, while the faster charger significantly reduces charging time. The CE 02 has a top speed of 95km/h.

BMW CE 02 Ride & Handling

I had a chance to test ride the CE 02 briefly in Sector 30, Gurugram. The seating posture and unique seat give the e-scooter a distinct character. Its weight and large tyres also contribute to its riding dynamics. Built primarily for urban riding, the CE 02 feels nimble and easy to maneuver in city traffic. The suspension performs well, absorbing shocks over speed humps and potholes without jolting the rider.

Thanks to the firm suspension setup, the scooter feels stable while cornering and at high speeds. While the front brake, which is equipped with ABS, lacks initial bite, the rear brake offers decent stopping power. Overall, it is a fun-to-ride scooter based on my initial impressions. Weighing 142kg, it is easy to move in and out of tight parking spots, and a reverse mode is also available for added convenience.

BMW CE 02 Features & Specifications

The standard model of the CE 02 includes two riding modes (Flow and Surf), single-channel ABS, a reverse mode, single discs at the front and rear, automatic stability control, recuperative stability control, anti-theft alarm preparation, all-LED lighting, a USB Type-C port, adjustable levers, phone connectivity, and a 3.5-inch colour TFT display.

Opting for the Highline package adds several enhancements, including body stickers, gold-anodised front forks, a tricolour seat, and the new Flash riding mode. Additional features include heated grips, a smartphone holder, extended phone connectivity with access to the BMW app via switchgear, and a 1.5kW faster charger.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the new BMW CE 02 stands out with its unique design and turns heads wherever it goes. It offers a range of features, a fun-to-ride experience, optional faster charging, and removable batteries - all with a made-in-India tag. Priced at Rs 4,49,500 (introductory, ex-showroom) with the Highline package available as an option, the BMW CE 02 is an exciting proposition and is well worth considering for buyers looking for a bold styling, premium, and eco-friendly electric vehicle.