2020 BMW C Evolution
Contents
The 2020 BMW C Evolution is a maxi scooter that is built for maneuvering and navigating city streets and urban environments. What sets this bike apart from the other scooters in BMW’s lineup is the fact that it is an electric scooter.
The model features an electric motor that makes 48 hp and 53 lb-ft of torque. The bike comes with a 99-mile range, depending obviously on how you ride it. The bike is the perfect option for anyone who needs a good commuter.
The C Evolution is right at home on city streets filled with other drivers and riders. It’s somewhat short range keeps it from being a good highway machine. The main downside with this scooter other than its range is the fact that it costs $13,995.
The motorcycle is available in Silver Metallic with an Electric Green accent color.
On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new BMW C Evolution in one place.
Model Overview
General Info
- Price: $ 13,995
- Key Features:
- ABS
- LED Lighting
- Reverse Assist
Key Specs
- Engine type: Drive train swing arm with liquid cooled alternator
- Power: 48 hp
- Wet weight: 375 lbs (170 kg)
- Seat height: 30.9 Inch
Key Competitors
- Zero S
- Suzuki Burgman 400
2020 BMW C Evolution Specifications
ENGINE |
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| Engine | Drive train swing arm with liquid cooled alternator | |
| Power | 48 hp | |
| Bore x Stroke | ||
| Compression Ratio | ||
| Fuel System | ||
| Starter | Electric | |
| Lubrication | ||
DRIVETRAIN |
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| Clutch | ||
| Transmission | ||
| Final Drive | Swing arm with toothed belt and ring gear transmission to the rear axle | |
CHASSIS |
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| Suspension Front | Upside-Down fork Ø 40 mm | |
| Suspension Rear | Single-sided swing arm with direct-link spring strut and spring pre-load with 7 manually adjustable settings | |
| Brakes Front | Double disc brake, diameter 270mm, 2-piston floating caliper | |
| Brakes Rear | Single disc brake, diameter 270 mm, 2-piston floating caliper | |
| Tires Front | 120/70 R 15 | |
| Tires Rear | 160/60 R 15 | |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | ||
| Color | Silver Metallic with an Electric Green accent | |
ELECTRICAL |
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| Ignition | ||
| Spark Plugs | ||
| Headlight | LED | |
| Tail Light | LED | |
DIMENSIONS |
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| Overall Length | 86.2” (2,190 mm) | |
| Overall Width | 37.3” (947 mm) | |
| Overall Height | 49.4” (1,255 mm) | |
| Wheelbase | ||
| Ground Clearance | ||
| Seat Height | 30.9 in (784mm) | |
| Curb Weight | 375 lbs (170 kg) | |
WARRANTY |
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| Warranty | 5-year, 30,000-mile battery warranty | |
| Extension | ||
2020 BMW C Evolution Features
Torque Control Assist (TCA).
To make sure the ample torque remains securely under the control of the driver at all times, the electronic control system monitors rear wheel speed and reduces drive torque when necessary. Torque Control Assist (TCA) works in a similar way to ASC (Automatic Stability Control), preventing uncontrolled rear wheel spin – especially when setting off.
With heavy recuperation and the associated high drag torque, the TCA also prevents the rear wheel from locking, similar to how ABS works during braking, which incidentally is also fitted as standard in the C evolution.
Reverse Assist for particularly easy maneuvering.
A technologically complex feature in scooters with combustion engines, Reverse Assist comes as standard in the BMW C evolution. In the city, this function makes it easier to maneuver and exit parking spaces where there is limited space. It is activated by means of a switch on the handlebars, the reverse enablement being displayed on the screen.
Recuperation during braking and acceleration.
The word “recuperate” is of Latin origin and means “recover”. In motor vehicle construction the term refers to the technological method of recuperating energy.
The BMW C evolution also features this innovative technology. When the brakes are applied, the electric motor automatically turns into a generator and the brake energy is diverted back to the battery in the form of electrical energy. The result is increased energy efficiency and in turn longer range.
Recuperation involves the generation of artificial drag torque, the strength of which depends on the degree of recuperation. To the rider, this drag torque feels like the familiar “engine brake” that takes effect when removing the accelerator with a combustion engine.
Four riding modes for riding pleasure and efficiency.
ROAD:
Medium drag recuperation, maximum acceleration. Standard mode.
ECO PRO:
Maximum drag recuperation, limited acceleration. Range optimized by +10 to 20%.
DYNAMIC:
Maximum drag recuperation, full acceleration. Enables ‘riding without braking’/’one-pedal feel’.
SAIL:
No drag recuperation, full acceleration, torque-free riding. Even gliding with no deceleration.
Multifunctional TFT color display.
Instead of analog circular instruments, the BMW C evolution has one central digital display. The large, easily readable TFT color screen contains all the familiar information and on-board computer functions such as speed, temperature, mileage etc. There is also a battery charge indicator and two bar displays for energy consumption (ePOWER) and recuperation (CHARGE).
Hybrid frame with low center of gravity.
The goal in developing the suspension of the BMW C evolution was to achieve the best of both worlds: the best possible directional stability at high speeds and optimum handling in heavy city traffic. The low center of gravity provided by the battery facilitates handling and ensures excellent slow running properties.
The integration of electric drive requires a whole new approach to suspension design. The battery casing takes the place of the familiar main frame: this contains the bearing for the single-sided drivetrain swing arm.
The front and rear wheel mounts appear almost conventional. The upside-down fork at the front has a 4.7” spring travel. The rear wheel is guided by the single powertrain swinging arm with 4.5” of spring travel.
The wheels and brakes are from the C 650 Sport or C 650 GT. The standard BMW Motorrad ABS is also based on the 2-channel Bosch system familiar from the two maxi scooters. However, two additional sensors have been integrated for energy recuperation and the ABS software has been adapted accordingly. To control the energy recuperation however, two additional sensors were integrated and the ABS software adjusted.
Tried-and-tested ergonomics and bodyshell.
The body and ergonomics of the BMW C evolution are inspired by its petrol-powered sibling, the C 650 Sport. The sports-style windshield provides sufficient protection in an urban setting as well giving the rider a good overall view. The high windscreen, available as an optional accessory, provides more comfort and improved wind protection.
The vehicle weighs 606 lbs, which is slightly heavier than the BMW maxi scooters with combustion engine. This relatively low additional weight is achieved by the use of modern composite materials.
Practical storage space solutions.
Under the generously sized passenger seat there is storage space for an integral helmet, daily groceries or a bag. The lockable right-hand compartment in the footwell holds the charger cable or other small items and features a 12 V socket. The large topcase, available as an optional accessory, offers even more storage space.
2020 BMW C Evolution Photos
