Except for the radical TVS X, there haven’t been any two-wheeler EVs that cost more than Rs 2 lakh in India. BMW presented its distinctive-looking BMW CE 02 electric two-wheeler, which is wholly made by TVS, a little more than a month ago. Additionally, it has recently been seen testing in India. One of the two cars sighted on test here appears to have been personalised with a number of extra accessories from the Highline pack, which is one of many optional accessories offered by BMW’s sizable accessory catalogue.
Some of you may have noted that the left switch cube resembles those on the TVS Apache RR 310 and even the Ultraviolette F77 (TVS is a startup investor). The majority of the other elements, other than this one, are unique and not present in any other offering from either company.
The Bavarian firm was very clear when the BMW CE 02 was launched that this wasn’t to be pigeonholed within the broad parameters of either an electric scooter or bike. It is available in two different versions abroad: a full-bulky model with a 4kWh battery and a constrained model with a 2kWh battery.
BMW CE 02 electric two-wheeler features:
The restricted version of the CE 02 has a top speed of 45 kph, a claimed range of 45 km, and a weight of 119 kg, however India does not designate it as a low-speed vehicle. The CE 02’s 4kWh variant has a 90km claimed range and 15hp of power. It weighs 132kg, which is 13kg heavier than the one with a single battery, and has a top speed of 95kph. Either a 0.9kW normal charger or an optional 1.5kW fast-charger can be used to top off either of these.
Given that the BMW CE 02 would be substantially more expensive than other EVs with comparable characteristics, it is unclear whether it will actually go on sale in India. The standard CE 02 costs USD 7,599 (about Rs 6.28 lakh) internationally, while the Highline trim costs USD 8,474 (about Rs 7 lakh). The CE 02 will be knocking on the doors of many high-end, multi-cylinder bikes if that cost is any indication of where it will sit in the market.
