The new BMW Motorrad X2City is the latest invention from the BMW Group in the segment of zero-emissions mobility on two wheels. The kick-scooter with electric auxiliary drive is light and compact and takes its rider where he wants to go regardless of traffic back-ups, shortage of parking space and public transport timetables.
With a top speed of up to 25 km/h (15.5 mph) and an electric range of around 25 to 35 km (15-22 miles), the X2City is aimed at facing congested city traffic conditions. With this kick-scooter, BMW Motorrad is sending out another clear signal showing its commitment to developing sustainable and innovative solutions for the urban single-track mobility of the future. The X2City is classified as a “Pedelec25” requiring no helmet or driving license for everyone aged 14 and over.
The BMW Motorrad X2City is the result of a cooperation between BMW Motorrad and ZEG and its brands Kettler, Bulls, Pegasus, Hercules and others. Therefore, the kick-scooter is not distributed via the BMW dealer network, but by selected bicycle shops and via the online shop of KETTLER Alu-Rad GmbH. Servicing and warranty processing are also handled by the the bicycle business. The X2City is expected to be available in shops from the end of 2017. The price has not yet been fixed but it will be below €2,500 or $2,850 at today’s exchange rates.
Thanks to its low weight of 20 kg (44 lbs) and the foldable steering unit, the BMW Motorrad X2City can be stored in the luggage compartment of a small car. Its compact dimensions also make it easy to transport on the bus or on the underground. Despite being so small, the X2City features a brushless hub motor that provides effective support. The operating unit on the handlebars offers five speeds (8, 12, 16, 20 and 25 km/h). For safety reasons the supporting power of the electric motor is only activated once a speed of 6 km/h has been reached. The electric drive can be turned off at any time using a switch in the brake lever, thereby interrupting any electric support.
A 408 Wh lithium ion battery supplies the electric motor with power. It is contained in a rain and splash-proof housing underneath the running board and is integrated into the frame from where it can also be removed easily. A battery management system with integrated power electronics ensures a range of between 25 – 35 km in everyday use. A specific charging unit with magnetic connector makes for easy charging using the exterior charging socket on the scooter or directly at the battery itself. The battery is charged using a conventional household socket and it takes approx. 2.5 hours to charge an empty battery.
The big and wide wheels are equipped with robust pneumatic tires. The rigid frame also safeguards agile and uncomplicated handling. For safe braking, the front and rear wheels are equipped with disc brakes. Both front and rear brake levers can be adjusted individually. The rider can also increase the dynamics and intensity of the brake response by shifting his center of gravity. A brake light, which is integrated into the rear light, lets following traffic know when you are braking.