New concepts for cargo bikes and e-scooters unveiled by BMW

BMW Group Research has unveiled details of its electrified bicycle Concept DYNAMIC CARGO and the e-scooter Concept CLEVER COMMUTE, which address some of the current issues for scooter and bike riders regarding bad weather and cargo space.

The key component of the three-wheeled Concept DYNAMIC CARGO is the front main frame, which is connected to the rear section via a pivot axle and tilts in corners. The rear section remains stable through all corners without tilting towards the road. This combines with the electrified powertrain – which is activated as soon as the rider starts to pedal and drives the two rear wheels – to make the cargo bike just as easy to ride as a standard bicycle.

As well as producing far greater riding stability in all weather conditions compared to two-wheeler designs, the rear wheels with their rigid, non-pivoting axle mounting also provide the basis for a versatile, pick-up-style transport platform. This can be fitted with a selection of innovative modular attachments for carrying luggage and/or children. The modular design principle paves the way for many more use cases, too. The non-pivoting design of the transport platform has the additional benefit that the rider is barely aware of any extra weight being carried, enabling safe, stable transportation of all loads while also ensuring a pleasurable riding experience.

The concept is rounded off by a facility for adding a modular system of weather protection. Together with the superior riding safety, which proves especially useful in adverse weather, this makes the Concept DYNAMIC CARGO an attractive means of transport all year round.

Although the BMW Group will not manufacture the Concept DYNAMIC CARGO itself, it is already in discussions with potential licensees.

With the CLEVER COMMUTE, the BMW Group presents an e-scooter that folds easily for carrying on public transport and/or by car without compromising on riding stability in any way. In public transport mode, the footboard folds up at the sides and the rear wheel pivots into the resulting aperture from below. This mechanism shortens the wheelbase of the CLEVER COMMUTE substantially so that it can even be carried on an escalator without difficulty. This is an important requirement if the journey includes underground transport routes. It can also be rolled along on both wheels in this mode, rather like a trolley case. And the front wheel’s integral hub motor provides an electric impulse that makes it easier to push the CLEVER COMMUTE up ramps. The e-scooter’s compact dimensions when folded up means it should be possible to take it on all forms of public transport free of charge.

The CLEVER COMMUTE can be folded up to a size that fits easily into small vehicle boots, with larger boots able to accommodate several of them for family outings. In the BMW Group range, this means that the CLEVER COMMUTE fits into luggage compartments lengthways from the 3 Series upwards, for example, without any need to fold down the rear backrest, and it can be carried crossways in MINI boots.

With its unique product characteristics, the CLEVER COMMUTE is a versatile companion in the city and allows any journey to be completed quickly, safely and easily. Its transformability makes it a truly ideal solution for multimodal travel.

Although the BMW Group will not manufacture the Concept CLEVER COMMUTE itself, it is already in discussions with potential licensees.

Both micromobility concepts have been designed to offer a range of over 20 kilometres (12 miles). One final very important feature for city use is the battery pack, which can be removed and charged at home.