TVS Motors, one of India’s leading two-wheeler manufacturers and distributors, has started production of BMW’s electric two-wheeler CE 02 at its Hosur plant. The CE 02 is a futuristic-looking bike that resembles something out of a sci-fi movie. It was unveiled as a prototype model by BMW Motorrad, the two-wheeler division of the German luxury automobile company, at the Auto Show in Munich.
What makes the CE 02 special?
The CE 02 is not just a bike, but a “mobile device” that can be customized and integrated with digital services, according to BMW. The bike has a minimalist design with a flat seat, a round headlight, and a large display that shows speed, battery level, and navigation. The bike also has a power socket and a USB-C port that can be used to charge devices or connect speakers.
The CE 02 has a power of around 14 hp and a range of 55 miles (88 kilometers), which means it can run at a maximum speed of 88 kmph. The bike is designed for urban mobility and can be ridden by anyone with an A1 or B license. The bike weighs only 120 kg and has a low center of gravity, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
How does TVS benefit from the partnership with BMW?
TVS has announced that its Hosur factory will be the global manufacturing base for the BMW CE 02 electric two-wheeler. This means that all the BMW CE 02 electric two-wheelers sold in the world will be manufactured at the Hosur factory. This is a significant achievement for TVS, as it showcases its capabilities and expertise in producing high-quality and innovative products.
TVS has been in alliance with BMW Motorrad for 10 years, since 2013, when they signed an agreement to manufacture two-wheelers. Under this partnership, TVS has already been producing BMW G310R and 310GS vehicles at its Hosur plant. These vehicles have been well-received by customers in India and abroad.
TVS has also been investing heavily in its green portfolio, aiming to become a leader in the electric vehicle segment. TVS had announced in August this year that it would invest Rs 3,900 crore over the next 4-5 years to boost its green portfolio. TVS recently launched a premium electric bike called TVS X at Rs 2.5 lakh. TVS iQube Electric is also the second best selling electric scooter in India with monthly sales of around 10,000 units.
What are BMW’s plans for the electric vehicle market?
BMW Motorrad is one of the pioneers in the electric vehicle market, having launched its first electric scooter, the C evolution, in 2014. Since then, BMW Motorrad has been expanding its electric portfolio with models such as the C400X and the C400GT. The CE 02 is the latest addition to this range, and it is expected to hit the market by 2023.
BMW Motorrad has big growth targets for its electric vehicle sales. Markus Schramm, president of BMW Motorrad, said the company is aiming to double the share of electric vehicles in its global sales this year. Last year, electric vehicles accounted for 2.5% of BMW Motorrad’s total sales of 200,000 vehicles. The target is to get 5% of sales this year.
BMW Motorrad is also working on developing new technologies and concepts for electric mobility. One of them is the Vision DC Roadster, a concept bike that combines the iconic boxer engine design with an electric drive system. Another one is the Definition CE04, a concept scooter that offers a spacious storage compartment and a smart connectivity system.
The CE 02 is part of BMW Motorrad’s vision to create “emotionally engaging mobility solutions” that cater to different customer needs and preferences. With TVS as its partner, BMW Motorrad hopes to reach new markets and customers with its innovative and futuristic products.
