It seems those bright sparks at BMW have come up with yet another two-wheeled winner, which will be fittingly launched at the 2012 London Olympics Games.
The BMW C evolution is their latest electric scooter, following in the footsteps of their prototype E Scooter and Concept E models that demonstrate the Bavarian manufacturer’s commitment to bringing a viable electric model to the market.
Unlike some of its predecessors, this natty new model, which BMW state is very close to entering full-time production, shouldn’t leave riders feeling flat.
With a 62 mile range from one charge and up to 46 bhp peak output that provides a top speed of 74 mph, it’s certainly quick off the blocks. And according to BMW, the C Evolution’s alternator offers the rider an instant, spontaneous response with no delays in torque build-up for acceleration a lot smoother than that provided by the good-old internal combustion engine. The C evolution even performs energy recuperation when braking, converting kinetic energy into electrical energy to charge the battery and extend charge length by up to 20 percent.
Plus, the quiet electric motor does away with another unwelcome scooter emission; the ear-splitting whine of an engine revving for all it’s worth that gives many scooters a bad name amongst road users and pedestrians alike.
When the juice runs out, after around 62 miles on a full charge, just plug in to a regular household socket and you’re fully charged and good to go in less than three hours.
And finally, the machine looks great, too. With sharp, angled styling and a funky streamlined profile, it’s positively charged with BMW’s trademark good looks.
We think the only shock you’ll get from this electric wonder may be the price tag, which has not yet been disclosed.
But what’s your opinion? Is the essential spirit of biking made up of a heady combination of oil, petrol, spark plugs and pistons? Or is there an ohm for an eco-friendly electric bike? Let us know!
Blog post originally written for Devitt Insurance and appeared on their Keep Britain Biking site in 2012.