2009 BMW C1-E Concept

This is what is safe, environmentally friendly and very practical vehicle for single rail traffic the city could look like in the future. BMW Motorrad developing C1-E study as a contribution to European safety eSUM project. This study unit based on the concept of the BMW C1. This is marked by a very high level of active and passive safety and driven by an electric motor.


BMW C1-E provides protection for the rider model. This is ensured by the safety cell with a striking roll-over bars which includes dynamic drivers seat in combination with the impact energy absorbing elements at the end of the nose. Further special point is that the C1-E driver wearing a seat belt. In this study the security features will be highlighted by a red belt and belt buckles.

Visual concept of a vehicle brand distinctive sheer driving pleasure expressed and clearly distinguishes itself from typical scooter look. Lines dynamically stretched and horizontal flow to the visual center of gravity low. The gift to the windshield, luggage space behind the rider and the business side of the parking stand to ensure a high suitability for everyday high-rises in combination with wind and weather protection.

Electric motors used in this study was designed to use the city and is based on the components of the company Vectrix. Motor get power from lithium-ion batteries and thus have enough power to control most of the traffic in the city rose with ease. Alternatively, vehicles can also be equipped with efficient, low emission internal combustion engine.

Security features of the C1-E has been taken from the former BMW C1 and further improved. Avant-garde BMW two-wheeler is considered a milestone in safety on two wheels. This is the only single-track motor vehicles exempted from the obligation to wear a helmet in almost all European countries.

BMW Motorrad this study is to remain the only model of its kind. Series production is not currently planned. However, the findings from the project will find its way into other future developments in the field of single track vehicles.

eSUM stands Urban Motorcycles Safer Europe. This is a joint project between the city centers of European Motorcycles and motorcycle manufacturers. Cities currently involved in projects including Paris, Rome, Barcelona and London and manufacturers BMW and Piaggio.