BMW CE 04

BMW CE 04 OVERVIEW & PRICE

PERFORMANCE AND MOTOR

The BMW CE 04 stands out in the electric scooter market with its impressive performance specifications:

1. Claimed Range: The CE 04 is equipped with an 8.9 kWh battery pack, which provides a claimed range of up to 130 kilometres on a single charge. This range is substantial for urban commuting and should alleviate range anxiety for most riders.
2. Real-World Considerations: It’s important to note that real-world range can vary based on riding style, terrain, weather conditions, and additional features like heated grips or navigation. In urban settings with frequent stops and starts, the actual range might be closer to the lower end of the spectrum.
3. Charging OptionsThe CE 04 offers flexible charging solutions to complement its range. The standard charger takes about 4.2 hours to fully charge the battery. For those in a hurry, an optional fast charger is available, which can reduce the charging time to approximately 1.5 hours.
4. Efficiency FeaturesThe CE 04 has different riding modes (Eco, Rain, and Road) that can help optimize range by adjusting power delivery and regenerative braking. This allows riders to balance performance and efficiency based on their needs and riding conditions.

The decent range and versatile charging options make the CE 04 a practical choice for daily commuting in Indian cities, where charging infrastructure is continuously improving.

FEATURES AND TECHNOLOGY

The BMW CE 04 is packed with an impressive array of features that blend technology, comfort, and practicality:

1. Advanced Display: The CE 04 boasts a large 10.25″ TFT colour display with split-screen capability. This display integrates BMW Motorrad Connectivity, providing riders with information at their fingertips.
2. Smartphone Integration: The scooter includes a USB-C connection for charging and connectivity. A watertight and ventilated storage compartment for smartphones ensures your device stays safe and accessible.
3. Safety Features: Standard safety equipment includes ABS and ASC (Automatic Stability Control). Optional DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) and ABS Pro are available for those seeking even more advanced safety.
4. Comfort Enhancements: The CE 04 doesn’t skimp on comfort, offering features like seat heating and heated grips. These are particularly valuable for early morning commutes or more fabulous weather riding.
5. Keyless Ride: This feature allows riders to start the scooter without removing the key from their pocket, adding a layer of convenience to daily use.
6. Electric Reverse: A handy feature for manoeuvring in tight spaces, the electric reverse function makes parking and repositioning the scooter effortless.
7. Customization Options: BMW offers various optional equipment and accessories, including decorative sticker sets, allowing riders to personalize their CE 04.
8. Storage Solutions: Practical storage compartments, including a side-loading compartment with lighting, provide ample space for everyday items.

These features collectively make the BMW CE 04 a technologically advanced and user-friendly electric scooter designed to meet the diverse needs of urban riders in India.

BUILD QUALITY

The CE 04’s frame is constructed from a one-piece tubular steel, providing a robust and stable structure. This design choice contributes to the scooter’s strength. It helps maintain a low centre of gravity, which is crucial for handling and stability. The use of advanced materials extends to the electric motor, a smaller version of the unit used in BMW’s hybrid cars. This showcases the crossover of technology between BMW’s automotive and motorcycle divisions, ensuring high performance and reliability.

The CE 04 utilizes a lithium-ion battery similar to those in BMW’s electric cars. Notably, this battery is manufactured using green power, underlining BMW’s commitment to sustainability. The manufacturing process of the CE 04 involves extensive testing to ensure the longevity of the batteries and other components. The cooling system, for instance, is designed to maintain optimal battery temperatures, thereby extending the battery’s life and performance.

BMW has incorporated automotive-based charging technology into the CE 04, allowing for efficient energy management and quick charging capabilities. This integration of technologies from BMW’s car division into the CE 04 highlights the synergy within BMW’s manufacturing processes.

HANDLING

The BMW CE 04 has been designed with urban environments in mind, offering exceptional handling and comfort for city riders. The scooter’s low centre of gravity, achieved through the strategic placement of the electric motor and battery, contributes significantly to its stability and manoeuvrability. This design feature makes it adept at navigating through congested traffic, a common scenario in Indian cities.

The scooter’s suspension system, which includes a one-piece tubular steel main frame, provides a smooth ride even on less-than-ideal road surfaces. This is particularly beneficial in the Indian context, where road conditions can vary greatly. The combination of the suspension system and the scooter’s overall design results in a high level of ride comfort, reducing rider fatigue during longer journeys.

COMFORT

Customer feedback has mainly been positive regarding the CE 04’s comfort levels. The flat and floating seat design has been praised for allowing easy access from either side, which is particularly useful in daily stop-and-go traffic in Indian urban centres. The multiple riding modes (Eco, Rain, Road, and the optional Dynamic mode) offer flexibility to adapt to different riding conditions, further enhancing the overall riding experience.

However, it’s worth noting that some users have expressed concerns about the scooter’s range in Indian conditions. The advertised range of approximately 130 km per charge may not be sufficient for all users, especially those who need to travel longer distances without frequent charging opportunities.

STYLING

The BMW CE 04 stands out in the Indian market with its striking and futuristic design. The scooter features sharp, edgy lines and a floating seat, contributing to its distinctive and modern appearance. Its elongated, low design includes a diagonally rising front end, a flat bench-type seat, and sharp bodywork, all of which contribute to its unique aesthetic. Key styling elements include:

1. Twin-pod headlights that enhance its futuristic look.
2. Layered side panels that add depth to the design.
3. An exposed monoshock contributes to the bold and eye-catching style.
4. A side-loading charging compartment and helmet storage unit that folds out towards the side, blending practicality with aesthetics.

The CE 04’s design is characterized by large, calm surfaces with sharply defined edges, which blend seamlessly into modern urban surroundings. This approach to styling makes the CE 04 visually appealing and functional, with its low centre of gravity enhancing handling and dynamism.

COLOUR OPTIONS AND VARIANTS

As per the official BMW India website, the CE 04 is available in two striking colour options:

1. Light White
2. Imperial blue metallic

These colour choices complement the scooter’s futuristic design, allowing it to stand out on Indian roads. Regarding variants, BMW India offers the CE 04 in a single, fully loaded variant.

However, customers have the option to personalize their scooter with various accessories and optional equipment, including:

1. Decorative sticker sets for customization
2. Optional fast charger for reduced charging times
3. Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) for enhanced safety
4. ABS Pro for improved braking performance in corners

It’s important to note that the CE 04 is imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), ensuring the highest standards of quality and performance that BMW is renowned for.

VALUE FOR MONEY AND PRICING

It is priced at ₹ 15,25,000 (ex-showroom) and is significantly more expensive than other premium electric scooters in India. Compared to high-end electric scooters like the Ather 450X and the OLA S1 Pro Gen 2, the CE 04’s price is substantially higher. However, its 31 kW (42 hp) motor offers superior performance, a higher top speed of 120 km/h, and quicker acceleration. The CE 04 justifies its premium price tag with the following:

1. Advanced features like the 10.25-inch TFT instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity.
2. Superior build quality and materials.
3. BMW’s brand value and exclusivity in owning a BMW product.
4. Futuristic design and advanced LED lighting.

However, regarding range, the CE 04 (130 km) is outperformed by less expensive options like the OLA S1 Pro Gen 2 (181 km). For buyers who prioritize brand prestige, cutting-edge technology, and unique design, the CE 04 may offer good value. However, for those focused purely on practical aspects like range and cost-effectiveness, other options in the market might provide better value for money.