BMW CE 02 Real-World Review: Urban Mobility Reimagined
The BMW CE 02, launched globally in 2024, marks a bold new step for BMW Motorrad in the urban electric mobility space. Neither a traditional scooter nor a conventional motorcycle, the CE 02 introduces a new category of two-wheeler that the brand calls an “eParkourer.” With its avant-garde design language, electric drivetrain, and focus on agile city commuting, the CE 02 aims to redefine how short-distance travel is approached in densely populated environments.
This review evaluates the CE 02’s real-world performance, design, practicality, and market positioning based on the latest available data and rider feedback.
Design and Visual Identity
The BMW CE 02 makes an immediate statement with its futuristic and youthful design. The silhouette is unlike anything else in BMW’s portfolio or the current two-wheeler market. The design combines elements from different segments: it adopts a fork reminiscent of off-road scramblers, BMX-style handlebars for better urban maneuverability, and a long, flat bench seat that resembles a skateboard deck. This hybrid styling approach creates a compact yet assertive urban machine that blends practicality with street aesthetics.
The short wheelbase, low seat height (750 mm), and minimalist body panels give it a stripped-down and lightweight appearance. Despite its unconventional styling, the design serves a functional purpose by enhancing agility and rider control in tight traffic conditions. Matte color finishes and bold geometric lighting elements further emphasize its modern appeal, making it especially attractive to younger and design-conscious urban dwellers.
Performance and Ride Experience
Powering the CE 02 is an 11 kW electric motor capable of delivering a peak output of around 15 horsepower. The vehicle reaches a top speed of 95 km/h (approximately 59 mph), which makes it more than adequate for most urban environments and short suburban commutes. Acceleration from 0 to 50 km/h takes just about three seconds, offering brisk responsiveness ideal for navigating stop-and-go city traffic.
In real-world testing, the CE 02 demonstrates a responsive throttle and immediate torque delivery, characteristics that electric motors naturally excel in. The low center of gravity, due to battery placement and overall weight of just under 132 kg, contributes significantly to its nimble handling. Quick U-turns, lane splits, and tight cornering become effortless, making the CE 02 feel more like a high-end electric bicycle in dense traffic than a full-fledged motorcycle.
Ride comfort remains relatively firm due to the minimalist seat design and compact suspension travel. The front features telescopic forks, while the rear uses a single-sided swingarm with a mono-shock. Though not built for plush comfort over rough terrain, the suspension setup performs adequately on well-maintained roads and paved cityscapes.
Battery Capacity and Range
The BMW CE 02 comes equipped with a 3.92 kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering a practical range of around 90 km (approximately 55 miles) under standard urban commuting conditions. The real-world range may vary slightly depending on riding mode, terrain, ambient temperature, and rider behavior.
The battery supports two charging options: the standard 0.9 kW home charger replenishes the battery in around 5 hours and 12 minutes, while the optional 1.5 kW fast charger reduces charging time to roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes. Although fast charging isn’t on par with high-voltage automotive EVs, it suits the overnight home-charging habits of most urban commuters.
The range is adequate for a full day of city errands, office commutes, or educational runs, with room to spare for unexpected detours. The simplicity of plugging into a household outlet further enhances its everyday usability.
Technology and Features
BMW Motorrad equips the CE 02 with a suite of tech features aimed at enhancing the ride experience. A crisp 3.5-inch TFT display serves as the digital dashboard, presenting key data such as speed, battery level, trip details, and selected riding mode. The vehicle offers three standard ride modes—Flow, Surf, and Flash—each modifying throttle response and energy consumption to suit various urban riding scenarios.
- Flow is ideal for smooth city gliding.
- Surf offers more dynamic response for spirited rides.
- Flash unleashes full performance for quick acceleration.
Additional features include full-LED lighting all around, keyless start, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB-C port for charging personal devices, and a reverse gear for easy maneuvering in tight spaces.
The Highline variant enhances the package further with heated grips, a smartphone mount, and app-based navigation using BMW’s Connected platform. This integration allows for route planning, range estimation, and vehicle diagnostics through a dedicated app.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Built in partnership with TVS Motor Company in India at its Hosur facility, the CE 02 showcases solid build quality in line with BMW’s global standards. The welds, switchgear, paint finish, and panel alignment reflect meticulous attention to detail. The collaborative production model allows BMW to maintain competitive pricing while ensuring engineering consistency across markets.
Ergonomically, the CE 02 caters to riders of all experience levels. The flat seat accommodates varied body types, and the upright riding posture, combined with wide handlebars, ensures good control. Footpegs are centrally mounted, contributing to a neutral position that minimizes rider fatigue during longer city commutes.
Practicality and Everyday Use
While the CE 02 impresses with performance and design, practicality remains modest. The absence of under-seat storage or a front cargo hook may pose a challenge for users who carry daily essentials like backpacks, groceries, or briefcases. Riders will need to rely on aftermarket solutions or backpack usage for everyday load-carrying.
Nonetheless, the lightweight frame, reverse gear, and low turning radius make parking and maneuvering exceptionally easy. The CE 02 thrives in tight alleyways, congested intersections, and narrow parking spots, which are common challenges in urban environments.
Pricing and Market Positioning
The CE 02 carries a premium price tag in global markets. In India, the model is priced at approximately ₹4.5 lakh, positioning it well above mass-market electric scooters but still significantly below luxury EV motorcycles. In Europe and the U.S., the CE 02 retails for around €7,750 and $7,599 respectively.
This pricing strategy targets urban consumers looking for a lifestyle product—individuals who value brand appeal, sustainability, and futuristic design over traditional notions of cost-per-kilometer efficiency. While this segment is currently niche, its appeal is growing as cities adopt electric mobility and Gen Z consumers prioritize eco-conscious transportation.
Conclusion
The BMW CE 02 stands out as a fresh, unconventional offering in the two-wheeler EV space. Its futuristic design, quick urban performance, and brand heritage position it as more than just an electric scooter—it becomes a statement piece for modern urban riders. While the limited range and cargo space may deter some, the CE 02 delivers a well-rounded package for those prioritizing style, agility, and sustainability in daily commuting.
As urban mobility evolves, the CE 02 serves as a clear indicator of where the market is headed. With increasing focus on clean energy, innovative design, and youth-oriented functionality, the CE 02 sets a strong precedent in the next chapter of BMW Motorrad’s electric journey.
