During the 2017 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, BMW Motorrad debuted a zero-emission urban mobility concept which is neither a motorcycle or a scooter, with a low-slung, stretched body and flat seat paired, giving the concept a unique design. BMW positions the bike as a representation of its “vision of zero-emission urban mobility on two wheels,” which ticks all the right boxes in the eco questionnaire.
Inspired by the BMW Motorrad Vision Next 100, the Motorrad Concept Link has a fully electric powertrain. Flat battery packs are stored in the floor, and a small motor spins the rear wheel. Because it’s only a concept, there are no specifics on the batteries’ capacities and riding range.
The BMW Motorrad Concept Link interprets the connection between rider, vehicle and the environment for urban use. It keeps the rider connected while riding, thereby expanding his mobile world by providing him with new opportunities. Among other things, the Concept vehicle knows what’s in the rider’s calendar and therefore his next destinations. As a result it can plan the fastest or most scenic route and even select the most suitable music if required.
The focus is also on being able to enjoy the riding experience without any distractions. The Concept Link ditches the traditional instrument cluster in favor of projecting things like speed and battery information onto the windshield. A touchscreen sits between and below the handlebars for controlling everything else.
With the traditional gas engine being omitted in this concept, designers were able to create a more streamlined silhouette with a low height, a floating seat, and geometric paneling and scoops. The space freed up by the absentee gas engine also allows for more onboard storage. BMW also says the Concept Link “knows what’s in the rider’s calendar” and is able to plan routes accordingly. In a nutshell, this is an intelligent mobile office on two wheels, which shows the endless possibilities of the future.
