MINI target two wheelers

BMW-owned MINI have unveiled a two-wheeled electric scooter concept. The Citysurfer Concept combines the riding properties of a kick scooter with electric drive.

The compact scoot is also foldable, so easily fits into the boot of its namesake. It weighs 18kg, and uses a thumb-operated throttle to activate the gearless hub motor in the rear wheel. The motor can push scoot and associated human along at 15 mph, but the electric drive won’t kick in from a standstill, ensuring that the owner will get some exercise by getting it up to speed first.

The power supply is via a lithium-ion battery permanently installed in the frame, which can be charged via 12-volt in-car socket, or domestic household socket. There’s also regenerative charging on the scoot when the brake is activated. The range is claimed to be 10 to 15 miles, more than enough for getting around town.

It features large wheels with pneumatic tyres, a low footboard, stable frame and height-adjustable handlebars. There are three brake systems which operate independently of each other; a recuperation brake via electric drive generator function, and hydraulic disc brakes on the front and rear wheels.

There’s no confirmation of if, and when, the Citysurfer might make it to market, but with all motor manufacturers seemingly looking at these ‘last mile’ solutions, and with the might of BMW’s EV technology behind the project, it seems highly possible that it will make it to production.