BMW C Evolution on trial

Plans by BMW to launch a premium electric scooter continue. Following 2011’s E-Scooter concept and the more recent Concept e, the latest development is the C Evolution, which is described as a near-production prototype.

BMW C Evolution (2012) Front Side
BMW C Evolution electric scooter. Scroll down for more images.

The aims for the new model are certainly ambitious, as BMW wants to create a machine that can match a petrol-engine maxi scooter for performance, yet still achieve a decent range.

Based on the provisional figures, it appears to be quick enough, with the 14 bhp (11 kW / 15 PS) motor - which has a peak output of 46 bhp (35 kW / 47 PS) - allowing for an electronically-limited top speed of 75 mph (120 km/h).

The air-cooled, 8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack meanwhile delivers a range of around 60 miles (100 kilometres), a distance that should be sufficient for most commuters. Recharging from flat is reckoned to take less than three hours, with extra energy being recuperated while on the move when coasting or braking.

To go with the innovative drivetrain, BMW has opted to construct the C Evolution using what it’s calling a hybrid chassis. Basically, that means that instead of a normal frame, the structure is based around an aluminium alloy battery case, attached to which are a single-sided swing arm, a steel tube rear sub-frame and the steering head support. The claimed benefits of such a configuration are a comparatively light weight and a low centre of gravity, which should help both efficiency and riding dynamics.

The C Evolution is now undergoing a trials programme, and currently there’s a fleet of five running around London. There’s still no word on when production is due to start or what the likely price tag will be, though.

BMW C Evolution (2012) Rear SideBMW C Evolution (2012) Side

BMW C Evolution (2012) Side No BodyworkBMW C Evolution (2012) Chassis Rear Side

Related posts:
BMW bike range updated
BMW unveils maxi scooters
BMW maxi scooters coming
BMW E-Scooter concept

Comments

  1. christine31 July 2012 at 08:33:00 BST

    This looks great. I just hope it runs as good as it looks.

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular posts:

Saab 9-3 Aero Carlsson

Image
Saab has got experience of producing special editions in honour of rally driver Erik Carlsson, having previously named versions of the 900 and 9000 after him during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Now it has decided to do it again, this time to mark the fiftieth anniversary of the Swedish driver’s first win in Britain’s RAC Rally, which was achieved at the wheel of a Saab 96. Thankfully, the company has resisted the urge to just bung some fancy alloys and a few other extra bits onto something like a mid-range diesel model. Instead, it appears to have resurrected the limited edition Turbo X from a couple of years ago, as the new edition similarly features a turbocharged 2.8 litre petrol V6, Saab’s XWD all-wheel drive system and a six-speed automatic gearbox. The result is the 9-3 Aero Carlsson saloon, which turns out to be a very rapid car. With 276 bhp (205 kW / 280 PS) and a healthy 400 Nm of torque, the 0-60 mph (96 km/h) dash takes just 6.9 seconds. But it’s in the mid-range t...
Read more

American spec Fiat 500

Image
Fiat has released the first details and images of the North American specification 500. The tiny city car will be available in Pop, Lounge and Sport trim levels, and is distinguished from the European version by its more aggressive front and rear bumpers, bigger grille and flared sills. Another unique feature is the engine. Fiat has decided to use the 1.4 MultiAir unit currently found in models such as the Fiat Punto Evo and Alfa Romeo MiTo. Perhaps it felt that using the forthcoming two-cylinder TwinAir in the American 500 would have been too much for markets there to take? There’s no word yet on what power output the MultiAir will have, although in its current applications it comes with either 103 bhp (77 kW / 105 PS), 133 bhp (99 kW / 135 PS) or 167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS). Similarly, prices have yet to be confirmed, but hopefully both details will have been sorted out by the time the order book for the 500 hatch opens later this year. For convertible fans, the 500C is due ...
Read more

i10 N Line versus the Up! GTI

Image
Hyundai has confirmed specifications and pricing for its sporty i10 N Line. This new variant – which arrives at dealers later this month – benefits from some cosmetic tweaks, unique suspension components and a more powerful 1.0 litre T-GDi turbocharged petrol engine.
Read more