BMW E-Scooter Concept Looks Straight Out of Star Wars

BMW E-Scooter Concept Looks Straight Out of Star Wars

BMW is doing everything it can to make electric scooters cool, displaying one of the sexiest scoots we've seen in a long time at the Concorso Villa d’esme in Italy this past weekend.

The Concept Link is described as "zero-emission urban mobility on two wheels." According to Edgar Heinrich, BMW Head of Design, the concept “links the digital and analogue world and places the focus on the rider and his mobility needs. It performs both as a means of transport as well as a communication device.”

Vehicle Design Head Alexander Buckan elaborated: “The technical realities of electric drive – such as the flat energy packs in the underfloor and the compact drive on the rear wheel – allowed us to create a highly distinctive design which shapes a new segment.”

Designed for quick acceleration and easy handling, the scooter includes a reverse gear for tight city parking issues. The bench seat is adjustable for length, with a sizable storage compartment underneath. The design sculpture showcases the technology used as part of the profile, with side panels leaving technical elements like drive unit, cooling ribs, single-sided swing arm, spring strut and tooth belt. At the same time they help improve aerodynamic air flow, according to BMW. The flat seat is separated from the body to "lighten the side view."

BMW says the Concept Link interprets the connection between rider, vehicle and the environment for urban use.

“It keeps the rider connected while riding, thereby expanding his mobile world by providing him with new opportunities," claims a media release. "Among other things, the Concept vehicle knows what’s in the rider’s calendar and therefore his next destinations. As a result it can plan the fastest or most scenic route and even select the most suitable music if required.”

One wonders what person ever wished his or her motorcycle were able to peek into a person's diary.

The scooter has no traditional instrument cluster. Data – including speed, navigation and battery information – is projected onto the windshield directly into the rider’s field of vision. Secondary information is displayed on the large-surface panel, which matches the design perfectly and is located below the handlebars. The touch sensitive surface of the large-size panel displays and controls extensive infotainment, connectivity and routing information. BMW says the rider's gear is also connected to the vehicle; a motion on the arm of the jacket opens and closes the sliding door of the luggage compartment.