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BATTERY SCOOTER: BMW's new E-Scooter could be unveiled at the EICMA show later in 2011.
In 2010 BMW showcased a concept version of the meanest looking scooter we’d yet laid eyes on at the EICMA show.
The German manufacturer has released images of a heavily disguised but production ready electric scooter prototype, called the E-Scooter, which appears to be heavily based on the Concept C. The final version of the scooter will likely make its public debut at the EICMA show on 8 November 2011.
When BMW first showcased the Concept C, the automaker mentioned that the maxi scooter would be available in two high-end versions. Just how the two models would differ, however, was not quite explained. With the unveiling of the new E-Scooter it seems likely that one of the models will be powered by an electric motor while the other will rely on a petrol engine.
EXTENDED RANGE
Unlike many electric scooters which are limited to city boundaries because of their performance and range limitations, BMW has developed the E-Scooter to be used for much broader applications.
According to the automaker there were two main requirements for its development: dynamic figures comparable to those of a maxi scooter with a combustion engine and a high range in realistic conditions of use.
BMW stated: “The concept E-Scooter provides the necessary sustained output and maximum speed for safe and reliable overtaking on urban motorways and when carrying two people. It is also easily capable of managing hill starts on steep slopes with a pillion passenger.”
Initial specifications point towards a 0-60km/h acceleration figure on par with maxi scooters powered by a 600cc petrol engine. The E-Scooter also has a range of 100km (perfect for a Pretoria-Johannesburg commute) and its battery can be charged from flat to full in less than three hours using a household socket.
EXTENDED RANGE
In line with many modern motorcycles that steer away from a traditional frame, the E-Scooter relies on its aluminium battery casing for the job. The steering-head support is connected to the casing, as are the rear frame and the left-mounted single swing arm with its directly hinged and horizontally installed shock absorber.
Although the Concept C has clearly influenced the design of the E-Scooter, it does appear that if the new addition is nowhere near as edgy as the concept if the photos of the disguised prototype are anything to go by. We hope that the new BMW petrol maxi scooter will show more of the concept’s cutting-edge lines when it’s launched.
The German manufacturer has released images of a heavily disguised but production ready electric scooter prototype, called the E-Scooter, which appears to be heavily based on the Concept C. The final version of the scooter will likely make its public debut at the EICMA show on 8 November 2011.
When BMW first showcased the Concept C, the automaker mentioned that the maxi scooter would be available in two high-end versions. Just how the two models would differ, however, was not quite explained. With the unveiling of the new E-Scooter it seems likely that one of the models will be powered by an electric motor while the other will rely on a petrol engine.
EXTENDED RANGE
Unlike many electric scooters which are limited to city boundaries because of their performance and range limitations, BMW has developed the E-Scooter to be used for much broader applications.
According to the automaker there were two main requirements for its development: dynamic figures comparable to those of a maxi scooter with a combustion engine and a high range in realistic conditions of use.
BMW stated: “The concept E-Scooter provides the necessary sustained output and maximum speed for safe and reliable overtaking on urban motorways and when carrying two people. It is also easily capable of managing hill starts on steep slopes with a pillion passenger.”
Initial specifications point towards a 0-60km/h acceleration figure on par with maxi scooters powered by a 600cc petrol engine. The E-Scooter also has a range of 100km (perfect for a Pretoria-Johannesburg commute) and its battery can be charged from flat to full in less than three hours using a household socket.
EXTENDED RANGE
In line with many modern motorcycles that steer away from a traditional frame, the E-Scooter relies on its aluminium battery casing for the job. The steering-head support is connected to the casing, as are the rear frame and the left-mounted single swing arm with its directly hinged and horizontally installed shock absorber.
Although the Concept C has clearly influenced the design of the E-Scooter, it does appear that if the new addition is nowhere near as edgy as the concept if the photos of the disguised prototype are anything to go by. We hope that the new BMW petrol maxi scooter will show more of the concept’s cutting-edge lines when it’s launched.
