BMW Presents New C Evolution Electric Scooter Prototype at London Olympics [w/Video]

Not to be outshone by the BMW car brand and its upcoming “i” series of pure-electric models, BMW Motorrad, which is the German company’s motorcycle division, is also gearing up for the presentation of its first zero emissions model.

Following the original E-Scooter concept at the BMW Motorrad Innovation Day 2011 and the Concept e at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW has now introduced a near-production prototype of the electric scooter named the C Evolution.

The electric-powered scooter was presented in the U.K. capital today with BMW to allow selected London Olympics visitors to drive the prototypes during the games.

The C Evolution features a hybrid composite structure upon which it fits an electric motor producing a continuous output of 11kW (15hp) and a peak output of 35kW (47hp) allowing for an electronically limited top speed of 120km/h (75mph).

According to BMW, in terms of acceleration from 0 to 60 km/h (37mph), the C Evolution “comfortably holds its own against current maxi scooters a capacity of 600 cc or more”.

The C Evolution is powered via a drivetrain swing arm. The alternator is positioned behind the battery casing and integrated in the swing arm.

The 8kWh battery provides a range of up to 100 kilometers (62 miles) and can be recharged through an integrated charging device via a regular household socket or a charging station in less than three hours.

Moreover, the C Evolution features a ‘smart’ recuperation system that regains energy during coasting or braking, and which BMW says can extend the range of the two-wheeler by 10 to 20 per cent, depending on riding style.

The Bavarian company believes that it can have the production model ready for sale by 2014.

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