BMW’s CE 02 is an electric two-wheeler that straddles the line between an electric scooter and a motorcycle. It's aimed at urban riders looking for a more stylish way to get around town and unlike the recently launched CE-04, this one is made in India at TVS’s Hosur plant. We got to spend a short time in Delhi’s traffic with this EV and while a full review will come later, this is more of a first impression.
BMW CE 02: Design and Features
The BMW CE 02 breaks from traditional scooter and motorcycle design, offering a minimalistic yet futuristic look. The CE 02 we rode was equipped with the Highline Pack which included bits like a gold anodized USD fork, teal stickering, tri-coloured seat, heated grips, and a smartphone holder. The overall design features minimal bodywork, sharp angles, a single-sided swingarm, and fat tyres that give it a unique look. The clean, flat surfaces combined with a simple-looking frame create a distinctive aesthetic that BMW hopes will appeal to younger riders.
The CE 02 has a friendly face with an LED headlight, LED indicators, and a DRL creating a unique light signature. Our test bike also came with a unique teal-tinted visor sold as an optional extra. During our short stint, the CE 02 stood out on our streets and in the flesh nearly looked like a concept bike. While the rest of the design feels quite cohesive, the front footpegs and their mount do look like a bit of an afterthought. Although BMW says it is designed this way to be able to accommodate a snow/skateboard.
Though some may find its playful design too polarising, I found it unique and funky. The CE 02 is equipped with a 3.5-inch TFT screen which may seem small on paper but does a pretty good job with a crisp and clear layout. Additionally, BMW also allows you to mount your phone onto the bike and connect it via BMW’s app which will enable you to control features on the app using the switchgear making your smartphone screen an extension to the infotainment. What seemed odd to me was the heated grips which seemed rather unnecessary in India and I would have preferred the windscreen or comfort seat instead.
Speaking of which, with a seat height of 745mm, the CE 02 is quite friendly for shorter riders. However, the standard seat is narrow and will accommodate skinny passengers at best. In the real world, the CE 02 seems better suited for just a rider and would require a rather snug fit to allow for any pillions. As of now, BMW is offering the CE 02 in standard trim and the Highline Package with only one colour option. As part of the Highline Package, BMW will offer a 1.5kW fast charger that will fully charge the CE 02 in under 3.5 hours.
BMW CE 02: Performance
The CE-02 is powered by two 1.96kWh batteries that form a combined capacity of 3.92kWh. This vehicle has a peak output of 11kW (15hp) and 55Nm. BMW claims the CE 02 is positioned as an electric alternative to a 200cc motorcycle but its numbers put it more on pace with a sporty 160cc bike. While 15hp may not seem like a lot, the CE 02 picks up pace rather quickly and can effortlessly climb to its 95kph claimed top speed. There are three riding modes; Flow, Surf, and Flash.
The latter is only available as part of the Highline package and all three modes tweak the throttle response and regen levels with Flow having mild regen, Surf turns off regen entirely whereas Flash puts regen and throttle response on max giving you the most engaging experience. All three modes felt quite similar with the difference feeling rather negligible in the real world. BMW also claims the CE 02 has a range of about 108km which should make it an effective city commuter. However, we’d need more time with the CE 02 before we can verify those claims.
BMW CE 02: Ride and handling
The CE-02 shines in its ease of handling and urban practicality. Despite weighing a hefty 142kg, it feels rather light and darting through traffic is quite effortless. The thick Michelin City Grip tyres provide great grip and the brakes provide ample stopping power. The lack of rear ABS may seem daunting to newer riders as it’s rather easy to lock up the rear wheel and this may be cause for concern.
Another issue I have is the suspension setup which allows you to feel every imperfection in the road and may not feel as plush as one would come to expect from a thoroughbred city commuter like the CE 02. BMW’s most affordable electric two-wheeler loves to attack corners and it’s not hard to get it to scrap its pegs. BMW says riders can alternate between a more relaxed or a more engaging riding position based on what foot pegs they use. While both felt comfortable, I preferred the forward set position for the most part of my journey.
BMW CE 02: Verdict
Priced at Rs 4.50 lakh which makes it one of the most expensive electric two-wheelers on sale, second only to its older sibling. While it is relatively more affordable than the CE 04, the CE 02 still remains a niche EV for premium buyers that care more about brand image and futuristic design.
While our time with it was short, the CE 02 has made a positive impression with all its credentials. We look forward to bringing you a more detailed review of this electric two-wheeler and testing it over a longer period in the future. Until then, stick around for further updates.
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