Definition CE 04 concept heralds new BMW electric scooter

BMW Motorrad has unveiled a near production ready electric scooter concept called the Definition CE 04.

The manufacturer says the Definition CE 04 provides electric drive, trailblazing design and innovative connectivity solutions to redefine the urban scooter segment.

“The BMW Motorrad Definition CE 04 is the continuation of the electromobility strategy for urban use and provides a concrete preview of what a production vehicle could look like,” BMW Motorrad head of design Edgar Heinrich says.

BMW Motorrad head of vehicle design Alexander Buckan says the design of the Definition CE 04 may polarise opinion but it will definitely stand out from the crowd.

“The technical realities of electric drive – such as the flat energy packs in the underfloor and the compact drive train – allow us to create a highly distinctive design which defines a new, urban aesthetic and which differentiates itself clearly from conventional styling,” Buckan says.

“Visually, the BMW Motorrad Definition CE 04 clearly breaks with the look of scooters as we know them. Instead, an elongated, low vehicle body and the diagonally rising front end create a silhouette that is as modern as it is clear. 

“The flat battery in the underbody provides new freedoms, such as the new storage solution, which is illuminated and can be folded open from the side.

“It gives the rider easy access for storing a helmet and other equipment. In addition, the low position of the flat battery provides a favourable centre of gravity, which ensures playful handling and dynamic riding fun,” he says

The design of the lights is as reduced as it is modern. The two U-shaped LED front lights are characterised by minimalist design. Their clear-cut layout and the slim contours accentuate the modern and trailblazing visual appeal of the front section. The rear lights have been integrated into the rear side panels in the form of two C-shaped light elements.

“A scooter is not a “fun bike” but a practical everyday vehicle for driving from home to the office or meeting friends in the evening – simply a vehicle for every day in the city,” Buckan says. 

“That’s why we designed the drive and energy storage system to make it meet the needs of the actual user: The urban target group mainly rides short distances of 12 km per day. Long-distance comfort is therefore less important than variable ergonomics and easy accessibility.

“In this way we were able to create a “floating” seat bench seat, which allows you to glide comfortably onto the vehicle even from behind. It also offers improved ergonomics for single riders, regardless of leg length and height,” Buckan says.

BMW Motorrad sees great potential in the interaction between vehicle and rider equipment in terms of safety, comfort and emotional experience. The rider is connected to their environment through a smartphone via the BMW Motorrad Definition CE 04. Its 10.25 inch display is the largest in the scooter segment to date and acts as an interface between the digital and analogue worlds of the rider.