BMW's X2City Electric Kick Scooter Will Go on Sale Later This Year

Don't look for it at car dealers, though, because it will only be sold in bike shops.

In some circles, there's a certain amount of prestige attached to owning specific brands (but not here on TreeHugger, of course), and for some people this fall, they'll probably be lined up to be able to say they just bought a BMW. However, instead of the much vaunted electric i3, they'll be purchasing a smaller two-wheeled vehicle, and one that will fit into a closet instead of a parking space.

The forthcoming BMW Motorrad X2City is described as a "kick-scooter with electric auxiliary drive" with a top speed of up to 25 kph (~15.5 mph) and a driving range per charge of between 25 and 35 km (~15.5 to 21.7 miles). According to the company, the scooter is classified as Pedelec25, which can be ridden by those ages 14 and up without requiring a license or a helmet. With a weight of about 20 kg (44 lb), and the ability to fold up for transporting in a vehicle or for storage, the X2City could be either a standalone transportation solution or a last-mile conveyance that can help people avoid the search for parking spots and make it easier to move through congested urban areas.

© BMW Group

The X2City features pneumatic tires for a smooth ride, dual fenders, front and rear disc brakes, a brake- and taillight, and is powered by a removable 408 Wh lithium ion battery mounted in a weatherproof housing under the deck of the scooter. 5 speeds of electric assist are available, with the electric motor only kicking in at speeds faster than 6 kph (~3.7 mph) for safety reasons, and the scooter can also be ridden with the electric drive system off. Charging time is said to be about 2.5 hours, and an onboard micro-USB port allows for the charging of portable electronics from the X2City's battery while riding.

"The BMW Motorrad X2City is ideally suited to all situations where individual mobility by car or public transport reaches its limits. It can be used as a stand-alone means of transport over short distances, or as a supplement to the car or to public transport – any combination is possible. Thanks to its low weight of 20 kilograms and the foldable steering unit, the BMW Motorrad X2City can be stored easily in the luggage compartment of a small car. It is ready to use after a few easy steps and can take its rider from parking space or city limits to the final destination inside the congested city centre. The compact dimensions of the BMW Motorrad X2City also make it easy to transport in the bus or on the underground – the ideal solution for spontaneous and comfortable mobility in areas not reachable by motorised means of transport." - BMW Motorrad

In another first for the company, this electric vehicle won't be sold through BMW dealers, but will only be sold and serviced through bike shops, and the electric drive system (including the battery) will come with a 48 month warranty. The final price of the X2City hasn't been released yet, but once available later this year, will be "below €2,500," (~$2850) according to BMW Motorrad.