BMW’s zero-emission initiatives extend beyond cars, and the economically priced CE 02, which the company claims is neither a motorcycle nor a scooter but an ‘eParkourer,’ is an example of the broad strategy.
Recently, we got to spend time with the unconventional electric two-wheeler in the Cosmic Black 2 colour, a finish that perfectly suited its funky design.
Design
The BMW CE 02 is a compact, electric two-wheeler aimed at city riders who want something different. A tubular steel double loop frame, exposed panels and a skateboard-like seat give the electric two-wheeler a minimalist identity. Wide 14-inch wheels and generous tyres anchor the stance and make the EV look robust rather than fragile.
Cosmic Black 2 is the colour I’d want to get this vehicle in. “Petrol” highlights, which appear blue-green in person, and gold-anodised forks included in the optional Highline package add a playful contrast. The finish works as a styling cue that makes the CE 02 feel youthful without overshadowing its engineered simplicity.
Features & Specifications
BMW offers the CE 02 in two versions, both with the same air cooled, externally excited synchronous motor. The base variant’s motor produces 4 kW (5 bhp) and 45 Nm (33 lb.-ft.) of torque, accelerates from 0 to 50 km/h in 3.0 seconds, and allows a top speed of 45 km/h. In select markets, it is suitable for riders as young as age 16, who hold an AM motorcycle licence.
The top variant’s motor develops 11 kW (15 bhp) and 55 Nm (41 lb.-ft.) of torque and increases the maximum speed to 95 km/h, but it has the same 0-50 km/h acceleration time of 3.0 seconds. Depending on the market, riders need to have a car driving licence or an A1 motorcycle licence for the high-output configuration.
The 4 kW version uses one 1.96 kWh lithium-ion battery, while the 11 kW version uses two of them, leading to a combined energy storage capacity of 3.92 kWh. According to WMTC, the former travels more than 45 kilometres on a full charge, and the latter covers more than double that distance at 95 kilometres.
Charging the 4 kW version from 20% to 80% SoC takes 1 hour and 30 minutes, while the 11 kW version can be fully charged in 2 hours and 40 minutes. The latter also supports an optional quick charger, which can charge it from 20% to 80% SoC in 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Power reaches the rear wheel through a twin belt drive. ASC manages traction in low-grip situations. RSC controls recuperation and prevents abrupt drag torque in overrun. A reverse assistant supports low-speed manoeuvring.
The chassis uses a tubular steel double loop frame with telescopic forks at the front and a single-sided cast aluminium swingarm at the rear. The CE 02 rides on 14-inch cast alloy wheels with 120/80 front and 150/70 rear tyres. Hydraulic discs handle braking at both ends, with ABS on the front wheel. Kerb weight is 119 kg for the 4 kW version and 132 kg for the 11 kW version. Seat height is 750 mm.
Price
The BMW CE 02’s prices in the UK start at GBP 9,355. This particular Cosmic Black 2-finished sample retails at GBP 10,260.
Since 2014, I’ve worked as an international automotive editor, attending global motor shows, industry events, media drives, and tracking the latest developments across the sector, with a particular focus on electrified vehicles.
