BMW Korea to introduce long-range e-scooter
The BMW C evolution
By Park Jae-hyuk
BMW will likely introduce its long-range electric scooter (e-scooter), which can go up to 160 kilometers without recharging, as its first vehicle to be released in Korea next year, the German carmaker’s Korean affiliate said Tuesday.
BMW Korea said its affiliate BMW Motorrad Korea is waiting for the government’s approval to sell the BMW C evolution, the company’s next generation e-scooter. If it obtains certification, BMW Korea will unveil the model around the mid-January to consumers here.
The scooter was first disclosed to the public at the Paris Motor Show last year.
The new model will be available in two variants _ the Long Range version capable with a range of 160 kilometers on one charge, and the European version with a range of 100 kilometers.
The Long Range version has a continuous output of 26 horsepower _ up 11 horsepower from the previous model _ with a top speed of 129 kilometers per hour. The European version has an output of 15 horsepower with a top speed of 120 kilometers per hour.
Featuring a new generation of batteries with a cell capacity of 94 ampere-hours (Ah), as used in the current BMW i3, the range has been significantly extended. Plus, a new charge cable with a smaller diameter is now included as standard.
New optional accessories, such as a smartphone cradle, allow more ways for motorists to customize the BMW C evolution as well.
The two-wheel vehicle also offers powerful braking with an anti-lock braking system, light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running light, LED turn indicators, several riding modes, reverse assist and torque control assist.
Observers regarded the introduction of the e-scooter next year as BMW’s move to mark its first year as an eco-friendly vehicle manufacturer, considering it is set to release hybrid and electric cars in addition to the new motorcycle.
A BMW Korea spokesman, however, said it is not a short-term strategy, because the company has pushed ahead with its eco-friendly drive over the past few years. The German headquarters of the company plans to come up with 25 additional electric vehicles through 2025, according to industry officials.
The new BMW C evolution will likely be sold at 20 million won ($18,000). As the local governments can give up to a 2.5 million won subsidy per vehicle next year, consumers will be able to buy the vehicle for less than 20 million won.