Inspired by the Vision Next 100, BMW Motorrad presented the BMW Motorrad Concept Link zero-emission scooter at the 2017 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Cernobbio, Italy. The design combines digital connectivity with the demands of two-wheeled urban mobility.
Not simply a future “pie-in-the-sky” concept, the Concept Link is designed to address the needs of today’s riders, in a connected urban environment. Flat battery packs in the floorboard and a hub drive in the rear wheel translate into a low-slung, stretched body that makes getting on easy from either side, or mounting from the back.
“The BMW Motorrad Concept Link stands for a new understanding of urban mobility. It links the digital and analogue world and places the focus on the rider and his mobility needs. In the way it links functionality and digitalisation it performs both as a means of transport as well as a communication device. For me the BMW Motorrad Concept Link, with its timeless and reduced style, is more than a concept – it is rather a symbol for a new era.” said Edgar Heinrich, Head of Design of BMW Motorrad.
The seat is adjustable lengthwise to suit different rider preferences and can be configured as a solo saddle or bench seat, while the under seat luggage compartment is accessible via a sliding door. Gone from the Concept Link is the traditional instrument cluster, with speed, navigation and battery information projected onto the windshield directly into the rider’s field of vision.
Secondary information is displayed on the large-surface panel, located below the handlebars. The touch-sensitive panel displays and controls extensive infotainment, connectivity and routing information, and is also controlled by buttons on the handlebars so the rider does not need to remove his or her hands.
The side panels fall short of completely covering the rear of the Concept Link but stretch across the vehicle’s side like little wings showing off technical elements like the drive unit, cooling ribs, single-sided swing arm, spring strut and tooth belt while improving aerodynamic air flow. “The resulting expressive power of the vehicle is absolutely new for BMW Motorrad and breaks with all conventional viewing patterns,” explains Alexander Buckan, Head of Vehicle Design at BMW Motorrad.
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How can this be scooter when no center tunnel to put legs in?
Bmw motorrad really need to make a good maxi scooter.