The BMW CE 02 is not just another electric two-wheeler; it’s a bold statement in the realm of urban mobility, crafted to redefine how we navigate the concrete jungles of modern cities. Launched in India in September 2024, this electric scooter—or as BMW prefers to call it, an eParkourer—blends futuristic design with cutting-edge technology, offering a premium riding experience for the environmentally conscious urbanite. Born from a collaboration between BMW Motorrad and TVS Motor Company, the CE 02 is manufactured at TVS’s Hosur facility in Tamil Nadu, marking it as BMW’s first made-in-India electric two-wheeler. Unlike traditional scooters or motorcycles, the CE 02 occupies a unique niche, merging playful aesthetics with practical performance, making it an ideal companion for city dwellers who crave style, sustainability, and agility.
Targeted at a younger, trend-setting audience, the CE 02 breaks away from the conventional BMW two-wheeler image—think less S 1000 RR or R 1250 GS, and more of a sleek, electric runabout designed to turn heads. With its minimalist yet striking design, robust electric motor, and a host of smart features, it promises to deliver an exhilarating yet eco-friendly ride. But does it live up to the hype? How does it stack against its competitors in a market teeming with electric scooters? In this detailed exploration, we dive into the technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of what makes the BMW CE 02 a standout—or a contender—in the electric mobility space.
Technical Specifications
The BMW CE 02 is engineered to offer a balance of performance, efficiency, and urban practicality. Below is a comprehensive table of its technical specifications, sourced and verified from reputable platforms like BikeWale, BikeDekho, ZigWheels, and BMW Motorrad’s official channels.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor Type | Air-cooled synchronous electric motor |
| Power Output | 11 kW (14.95 PS) @ 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 55 Nm @ 1000 RPM |
| Battery Capacity | 3.92 kWh (2 x 1.96 kWh lithium-ion batteries) |
| Range | 108 km (claimed) |
| Top Speed | 95 kmph |
| Acceleration (0-50 kmph) | 3 seconds |
| Charging Time (Standard) | 5 hours 12 minutes (0-100% with 0.9 kW charger) |
| Charging Time (Quick) | 3 hours 30 minutes (0-80% with optional 1.5 kW charger) |
| Frame | Double-loop tubular steel frame |
| Front Suspension | Hydraulically damped USD (Upside-Down) telescopic forks |
| Rear Suspension | Single-sided swingarm with adjustable monoshock |
| Brakes (Front) | 239 mm disc with single-channel ABS |
| Brakes (Rear) | 220 mm disc (no ABS) |
| Tyres | 120/70-14 (Front), 150/60-14 (Rear), Michelin City Grip |
| Wheels | 14-inch cast aluminum disc wheels |
| Seat Height | 745 mm (standard), 765 mm (Highline comfort seat) |
| Kerb Weight | 142 kg |
| Ground Clearance | Approximately 140 mm |
| Display | 3.5-inch micro TFT display |
| Riding Modes | Flow, Surf (standard); Flash (Highline package) |
| Additional Features | LED lighting, USB-C charging port, reverse mode, keyless operation, anti-theft alarm |
These specifications highlight the CE 02’s focus on delivering a spirited yet manageable ride, tailored for city streets rather than long-haul journeys. The 11 kW motor provides enough punch to rival a sporty 160cc motorcycle, while the 108 km range ensures it’s practical for daily commutes.
Variants
The BMW CE 02 is available in two distinct trims, catering to different preferences in terms of features and aesthetics. Here’s a breakdown of the variants:
| Variant | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard | Cosmic Black color, 2 riding modes (Flow, Surf), single-channel ABS, reverse mode, LED lights, USB-C port, keyless operation, anti-theft alarm, 3.5-inch TFT display |
| Highline Package | Cosmic Black 2 color, 3 riding modes (Flow, Surf, Flash), golden anodized forks, tri-colored seat, heated grips, smartphone holder with connectivity, 1.5 kW quick charger |
The Standard variant offers a solid foundation with essential features, while the Highline Package elevates the experience with added flair and functionality, appealing to riders who want a more premium and personalized ride.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the BMW CE 02 varies slightly across metro cities in India due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. The following table reflects the on-road prices (as of March 2025, based on available ex-showroom data and estimated additional costs):
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 4,49,900 | 4,64,000 – 4,70,000 |
| Mumbai | 4,49,900 | 4,56,944 – 4,65,000 |
| Bangalore | 4,49,900 | 4,70,000 – 4,80,000 |
| Chennai | 4,49,900 | 4,65,000 – 4,75,000 |
| Kolkata | 4,49,900 | 4,60,000 – 4,70,000 |
The ex-showroom price of INR 4,49,900 positions the CE 02 as one of the most expensive electric scooters in India, reflecting its premium branding and advanced features. On-road prices include RTO fees (approximately INR 1,500-5,000), insurance (around INR 14,000-15,500), and other statutory charges, varying by state regulations.
About the BMW CE 02
Design and Aesthetics
The BMW CE 02 is a visual departure from traditional scooters, embracing a design philosophy that’s both futuristic and playful. Its long, low seat appears to hover over the iconic 14-inch disc wheels, creating a silhouette that’s instantly recognizable. The Cosmic Black finish of the Standard variant exudes understated elegance, while the Cosmic Black 2 of the Highline package adds expressive colored tapes and a tri-colored seat for a more extroverted look. The golden anodized forks in the Highline trim further accentuate its premium appeal. The LED headlight, with its unique light signature, paired with a minimalist body, gives the CE 02 a concept-bike vibe—something you’d expect to see in a sci-fi film rather than on city streets.
BMW markets the CE 02 as an eParkourer, a term that encapsulates its agility and ability to weave through urban landscapes like a traceur in parkour. The design isn’t just about looks; it’s functional too. The low 745 mm seat height (or 765 mm with the Highline comfort seat) ensures accessibility for riders of varying statures, while the slim bench seat allows for easy maneuvering in traffic. However, the seat’s compact size makes it less practical for pillion riders, prioritizing solo urban exploration over shared rides.
Performance and Handling
Under the sleek exterior lies an 11 kW air-cooled synchronous motor, delivering 14.95 PS of power and a robust 55 Nm of torque. This setup allows the CE 02 to sprint from 0 to 50 kmph in a brisk 3 seconds, making it ideal for quick getaways at traffic lights. The claimed top speed of 95 kmph ensures it can keep up with urban speed limits and even handle light highway stretches, though it’s not designed for long-distance cruising. The instant torque delivery, characteristic of electric motors, provides a smooth yet thrilling ride, especially in stop-and-go city conditions.
The CE 02 offers three riding modes: Flow, Surf, and Flash (the latter exclusive to the Highline package). Flow is tailored for relaxed cruising in traffic with mild regenerative braking, Surf eliminates regen for a coasting feel, and Flash maximizes throttle response and regen for a sportier ride. While these modes tweak the riding dynamics, some reviews suggest the differences are subtle in real-world scenarios, with Flash offering the most noticeable punch.
Handling is where the CE 02 truly shines. Despite its 142 kg kerb weight, it feels surprisingly light and nimble, thanks to a well-balanced double-loop steel frame and a low center of gravity. The USD forks and adjustable monoshock provide decent stability, though the suspension can feel stiff over rough patches, transmitting road imperfections to the rider. The Michelin City Grip tyres offer excellent traction, making cornering a delight—some riders even report scraping the pegs during enthusiastic leans. Braking is handled by a 239 mm front disc with single-channel ABS and a 220 mm rear disc without ABS. While the front brake inspires confidence, the rear can lock up easily, requiring careful modulation, especially for newer riders.
Battery and Charging
The CE 02 is powered by a 3.92 kWh battery pack, consisting of two 1.96 kWh lithium-ion units. BMW claims a range of 108 km, which is competitive for urban use and aligns with rivals like the TVS iQube. Real-world range may vary depending on riding style, temperature, and load, but it’s sufficient for most daily commutes in metro cities. Charging options include a standard 0.9 kW charger, taking 5 hours 12 minutes for a full charge, and an optional 1.5 kW quick charger (included with the Highline package), which reduces the time to 3 hours 30 minutes for 0-80%. The charging port is conveniently located on the left side, though the cable length (around 3 meters) may pose challenges for apartment dwellers without garage access.
Features and Technology
BMW has packed the CE 02 with a suite of modern features to enhance the riding experience. The 3.5-inch micro TFT display is crisp and legible, showing essentials like speed, battery level, trip data, and riding mode. While small, it’s functional and doesn’t overwhelm with unnecessary clutter. The USB-C charging port is a thoughtful addition, keeping your devices powered on the go. Standard features include LED lighting, keyless operation, a reverse mode for easy parking, and an anti-theft alarm, adding convenience and security.
The Highline package takes it up a notch with heated grips for colder days, a smartphone holder with Bluetooth connectivity, and integration with the BMW Motorrad Connected app. This allows riders to use their phone as an extended display, controlling navigation and other functions via the handlebar switchgear. These tech-savvy additions align with the CE 02’s appeal to a digitally connected audience, though some critics argue a larger TFT screen would better justify its premium price tag.
Practicality and Comfort
For urban commuting, the CE 02 excels in agility and ease of use. Its compact dimensions and light steering make it a breeze to dart through traffic, while the low seat height instills confidence in shorter riders. The ability to switch between relaxed (rider footrests) and sporty (pillion footrests) riding positions adds versatility, though the forward-set position is often preferred for comfort. However, practicality takes a hit with the lack of significant storage—there’s no under-seat compartment, and the design prioritizes style over utility. BMW suggests the front footpeg area can accommodate a skateboard, appealing to its youthful target demographic, but this limits its appeal for riders needing space for groceries or gear.
Comfort is decent for short rides, with the slim seat offering adequate padding (improved in the Highline variant). However, longer stints may reveal the suspension’s firmness, and the lack of weather protection (common in scooters) means it’s less suited for rainy conditions without additional gear. The CE 02 is clearly designed as a solo city runabout rather than a two-up tourer, which may disappoint those expecting more versatility from a BMW-badged vehicle.
Market Positioning and Brand Value
Priced at INR 4,49,900 (ex-showroom), the CE 02 sits in a premium segment, far above mainstream electric scooters like the Ather 450X or Ola S1 Pro. This reflects BMW’s strategy to position it as a lifestyle product rather than a mass-market commuter. The high price buys you the prestige of the BMW badge, German engineering pedigree, and a unique design that stands out in a sea of generic scooters. However, it also raises questions about value for money, especially when compared to competitors offering similar performance at lower costs. Maintenance costs are another consideration—while electric vehicles generally require less servicing than ICE counterparts, BMW’s premium service network may command higher rates.
Close Competitors
The CE 02 faces stiff competition in India’s burgeoning electric two-wheeler market. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals:
1. TVS X
- Price: INR 2,49,990 (ex-showroom)
- Power: 11 kW
- Range: 140 km (claimed)
- Top Speed: 105 kmph
- Key Features: 10.2-inch TFT display, regenerative braking, smart connectivity
- Comparison: The TVS X, also a product of TVS Motor Company, offers superior range and a larger display at nearly half the CE 02’s price. It lacks the BMW’s premium branding and quirky design but delivers better value for performance-focused buyers.
2. Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2
- Price: INR 3,17,000 – 4,19,000 (ex-showroom)
- Power: 30 kW (40.2 PS)
- Range: 323 km (top variant)
- Top Speed: 155 kmph
- Key Features: Motorcycle design, advanced connectivity, three riding modes
- Comparison: The F77 Mach 2 is a high-performance electric motorcycle rather than a scooter, appealing to enthusiasts seeking speed and range. It outclasses the CE 02 in power and distance but sacrifices urban agility and affordability.
3. Ather 450 Apex
- Price: INR 1,95,000 (ex-showroom)
- Power: 7 kW
- Range: 157 km (claimed)
- Top Speed: 100 kmph
- Key Features: 7-inch touchscreen, fast charging, regenerative braking
- Comparison: The Ather 450 Apex offers a polished package with strong tech and a lower price point. It’s less powerful than the CE 02 but provides greater range and practicality, making it a formidable rival in the premium scooter segment.
4. BMW CE 04
- Price: INR 15,25,000 (ex-showroom)
- Power: 31 kW (42 PS)
- Range: 130 km
- Top Speed: 120 kmph
- Key Features: Large TFT display, premium build, advanced safety features
- Comparison: The CE 04, BMW’s other electric scooter, targets a higher luxury segment with superior power and features. It’s impractical for most CE 02 buyers due to its steep price, but it showcases BMW’s broader EV capabilities.
Analysis
The CE 02’s closest competitors in terms of price and intent are the TVS X and Ather 450 Apex. The TVS X undercuts it significantly while offering competitive specs, making it a practical alternative for cost-conscious buyers. The Ather 450 Apex, meanwhile, balances performance and features at a lower price, appealing to tech-savvy urban riders. The Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 caters to a different audience—performance enthusiasts—while the CE 04 is a premium outlier. The CE 02’s unique selling points are its design, BMW branding, and nimble handling, but its high cost and limited range may deter buyers seeking maximum bang for their buck.
Final Thoughts!
The BMW CE 02 is a breath of fresh air in the electric two-wheeler landscape, blending style, innovation, and urban agility into a package that’s unmistakably BMW. Its 11 kW motor, 108 km range, and playful design make it a compelling choice for city riders who value aesthetics and brand prestige over raw utility. The Standard and Highline variants cater to different tastes, while the pricing—starting at INR 4,49,900—reflects its premium positioning. In metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, it’s a head-turner that promises an eco-friendly, exhilarating ride.
However, it’s not without flaws. The lack of storage, firm suspension, and premium price tag may alienate practical-minded buyers, especially when competitors like the TVS X and Ather 450 Apex offer more range and features for less. The CE 02 excels as a solo urban runabout but falls short as a versatile all-rounder. For those willing to pay for the BMW experience—and who prioritize style over substance—it’s a worthy investment. For others, the market offers more cost-effective alternatives. Ultimately, the CE 02 is a bold step into electric urban mobility, proving that being environmentally conscious can indeed be stylish—if you’re ready to embrace its quirks and costs.
