BMW Files Patent
BMW has patented an innovative new folding electric scooter aimed at the growing European micromobility market. Their design includes a clever folding rear wheel and handlebars for exceptional portability when collapsed. An electric hub motor generates up to 500W of power with speeds capped at 20km/h per EU regulations.
The article explores this recent BMW e-scooter patent and how it stacks up against competitors like Lime, Voi, Tier Mobility and more. It covers features like the folding mechanism, hub motor performance, walk mode, and potential self-balancing capabilities. The conclusion weighs the pros and cons and discusses BMW’s future mobility outlook including e-scooters.
Introduction
Electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular for short trips and last-mile transportation. Major automakers like BMW are taking notice and developing their own e-scooter models to compete in this growing market.
BMW recently filed a patent for a new folding electric scooter design. The German automaker is no stranger to electric two-wheelers, with e-bikes and scooters like the CE-04 already in its lineup. However, this latest patent highlights an innovative compact folding mechanism that sets it apart from other e-scooters.
Main Competitors
Before diving into the details of BMW’s patented design, it’s helpful to understand the competitive landscape. Some of the main players in the European electric scooter market include:
- Lime – The ridesharing company operates fleets of electric scooters in cities across Europe.
- Voi Technology – A Sweden-based micromobility firm offering electric scooter sharing services in European urban areas.
- Tier Mobility – A Berlin-based company that runs large fleets of electric scooters across 60+ European cities.
- Ducati – The Italian motorcycle maker offers high-performance electric scooters like the Pro II aimed at sporty riders.
Overview of BMW’s Electric Scooter Patent
Description
BMW describes the electric scooter patent filing as covering an “electric small-sized vehicle, in particular an electric scooter, having a rear wheel, a frame, a support with a footboard and a wheel folding mechanism.”
So in simple terms, it’s a folding stand-up e-scooter designed for urban transportation and integration with public transit systems.
Key Features and Technology
- Folding rear wheel mechanism – Allows the rear wheel to tuck into a slot in the footboard for very compact folding.
- Fold-down handlebars – Enables an even smaller footprint while folded for carrying and storage.
- Front wheel electric hub motor – Propels the scooter at speeds capped at 20 km/h, meeting European e-scooter regulations.
- Up to 500W power – Standard power limit for this vehicle class, with 1400W supporting self-balancing designs.
- “Walk mode” at 6 km/h – Lets riders manually roll the scooter uphill with motor assist at walking pace.
Pros and Cons of BMW’s Scooter Design
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact folding mechanism enables easy transport | No info yet on battery size and range |
| Creative handlebar and wheel design stands out | Unclear if self-balancing features will be included |
| Walk mode adds flexibility for challenging areas | Likely Europe-only release limits market potential |
| Hub motor location increases stability | 500W motor may limit performance vs competitors |
| BMW brand reputation for quality and innovation | Higher price tag expected than mass-market e-scooters |
Conclusion and Future Outlook
While details are still scarce, BMW’s folding electric scooter patent highlights some smart design choices focused on compactness and practicality. Integrating this e-scooter into BMW’s urban mobility lineup makes perfect sense as global demand for short-range electric transport surges.
However, the automaker faces stiff competition from specialized micromobility companies with vast fleets already deployed across European cities. To stand out in this market, BMW will need to emphasize premium quality and possibly self-balancing or other advanced features.
Pricing will also play a key role in adoption rates if and when BMW decides to commercialize this patented scooter concept. But the underlying idea shows the German company’s commitment to exploring diverse electric platforms beyond cars and motorcycles. Going forward, we’re likely to see even more entrants from traditional automakers embracing e-scooters and other alternative mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How fast can BMW’s electric scooter go?
A: The top speed would be capped at 20 km/h to comply with European electric scooter regulations, with lower 6 km/h “walk mode” also available.
Q: Can the scooter balance itself so you don’t need to steer?
A: The patent mentions the potential for self-balancing features, but it is unclear if these will be incorporated into the commercial version.
Q: Does the scooter have removable batteries for charging?
A: No battery or charging details are provided yet, so removable vs built-in batteries is still unknown.
Q: Where will BMW sell this electric scooter?
A: The design seems targeted specifically at European urban transportation based on features and regulations referenced. A wider release in other markets is possible but uncertain.
Q: When will the BMW e-scooter be launched?
A: BMW has not announced any timeline for commercializing this patented folding electric scooter. More details could emerge in 2023 or beyond.
“Be Part of BMW’s Electric Future”
BMW is charging ahead into electric vehicles of all kinds, including this innovative e-scooter patent. Help shape their two-wheeled vision by:
- Joining the BMW Scooter Community Forum to discuss features you want to see and provide feedback directly to BMW.
- Signing up for email updates on BMW’s micro-mobility plans to get the latest scooter launch info delivered to your inbox.
- Taking quick demographic survey to provide BMW with insights into urban commuters that will help guide their e-scooter development.
- Checking BMW’s website periodically for announcements about possible e-scooter trial programs in select European cities where you could test drive prototypes.
Get engaged now by clicking below to visit the Scooter Forum, survey, and updates email sign-up so you’re involved in this exciting e-mobility initiative!
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