With a safety cell and self-balancing, the BMW Vision CE electric motorcycle promises a 130 km range. See the complete technical sheet.
The essentials in 60 seconds
- Does the BMW Vision CE eliminate the need for a helmet? The concept integrates a “safety cage,” a dedicated seat, and a seatbelt. In theory, it could eliminate the need for a helmet and protective clothing where legislation allows.
- Is it 100% electric? Yes. It was designed for zero-emission urban mobility, focusing on integrated active and passive safety.
- What is the power and performance? The technical foundation is inspired by the CE 04: up to 31 kW (42 hp), 0–31 mph in 2.6 seconds, and a top speed of ~75 mph, with a 23 kW (31 hp) version.
- What is the expected range and charging time? Reference CE 04: 8.9 kWh battery with up to ~81 miles. 0–100% charge in ~4h20m (2.3 kW AC) or ~1h40m (6.9 kW). 20–80% in ~45 min (fast charge).
- When will it hit the streets? It is a design and engineering study. Production will depend on technical validations, legal requirements, and market interest.
The BMW Vision CE points to a radical path: an urban electric motorcycle with a “cage” safety cell, integrated seatbelt, and self-balancing to broaden access and reduce barriers. The goal is to deliver protection equivalent to automotive solutions without losing the essence of two wheels.
What is the BMW Vision CE and why is it disruptive?
It is a concept for an urban electric motorcycle focused on structural safety and usability. The standout feature is the metallic “safety cell” that encloses the rider and works in conjunction with a dedicated seat and seatbelt. The proposal aims to reduce reliance on helmets and technical clothing while maintaining the pleasure of riding with zero emissions.
The design is minimalist and technical: matte white with black, neon red accents, and exposed aluminum. The long wheelbase and open lines create a visual lightness, while the ergonomics favor daily commutes. BMW is already exploring related concepts in two-wheelers; just look at the bold language of the “BMW Concept RR” carbon superbike with track DNA.
How can the safety cage replace helmets and clothing?
The “cage” functions as a safety cell that dissipates impact energy and creates a protective envelope. Combined with an integrated seatbelt and seat geometry, it limits body movement during sudden decelerations. It’s a transposition of automotive reasoning to two wheels, something rare in the industry.
Important: the dispensing of traditional equipment depends on homologation, testing, and local laws. BMW invests in electric architectures and ADAS across its lines, and this know-how appears in the Vision CE; the same platform vision as the “BMW iX3 2026 with Neue Klasse and advanced HUD” helps design more robust safety integrations.
What performance and technical basis does the Vision CE anticipate?
The concept stems from the solutions of the CE 04, an electric scooter launched with the motor between the battery and the rear wheel. As a reference: 31 kW (42 hp), 0–31 mph in 2.6 seconds, and a top speed of ~75 mph. There is also a 23 kW (31 hp) option, an estimated range of up to ~81 miles (8.9 kWh), and AC charging from 2.3 to 6.9 kW.
The mentioned powertrain uses a synchronous machine (FSM) and prioritizes strong urban acceleration, typical of stop-and-go traffic. This aligns with the brand’s broader electrification strategy, reflected in studies like the “BMW M3 Electric Vision concept and the future of power”, where instant response and digital integration are pillars.
Self-balancing: who can ride with this technology?
The self-balancing system keeps the motorcycle stable even when stationary, reducing the risk of falls at low speeds. This opens doors for new audiences, including those who lack experience or the stature for larger motorcycles. The result is less physical effort and more confidence in low-speed maneuvers.
In the realm of electric two-wheelers, the focus on accessibility is growing. Initiatives like the affordable urban options mentioned in “LiveWire and Zero redefine urban electrics, affordable and bold mini-motos emerge” show that lowering the learning curve is a real competitive advantage.
How does the Vision CE fit into BMW’s electric plan?
It is a manifesto for urban mobility: compact, connected, structurally safe, and with simplified EV maintenance. The minimalist design reduces complexity and emphasizes surfaces, a trait the brand has been consolidating in its electric studies and launches.
Alongside other futuristic visions for personal mobility, the idea of “bringing the car to the motorcycle” with a protective cell can add to new vehicle categories—from high-volume EVs to alternative solutions like the “Volonaut Airbike, the flying motorcycle”. Common to them are electrification, active safety, and more inclusive experiences.
Highlights
- “Safety cage” + integrated seatbelt
- Low-speed self-balancing
- CE 04 technical base as reference
- 0–31 mph in 2.6 s (ref. CE 04)
- Range ~81 miles (8.9 kWh)
- 1h40m charging 0–100% (6.9 kW)
- Top speed ~75 mph
Quick comparison vs. urban electrics
- Unprecedented structural safety
- Integrated self-balancing
- Focus on real daily use
- Ergonomics for accessibility
- Functional minimalist design
- Seatbelt/seat/cage integration
Want to see this concept on the streets? Comment below: would you ride an electric motorcycle with a “safety cage” and no helmet where legally permitted?
Author: Fabio Isidoro
Founder and editor-in-chief of Canal Carro, he dedicates himself to exploring the automotive universe with depth and passion. A car and technology enthusiast, he produces technical content and in-depth analyses of national and international vehicles, combining quality information with a critical eye for the public.