If the response our story the other day about Makati’s stand on electric kick scooters on main roads is any indication, it’s that personal mobility is growing. One brand that recognizes this is BMW, who just might dive into creating personal mobility vehicles that they call ‘micromobility’.
BMW has just unveiled two new concepts that hope to meet the needs of more tech-savvy commuters and even those in the courier industry.
These two are the Dynamic Cargo and Clever Commute concepts, two micromobility vehicles designed for short distances.
Dynamic Cargo Concept
It may look like a simple tricycle, but if you remember how BMW tried to reinvent the skateboard, you know that it’s not as simple as it looks. The Dynamic Cargo is actually a semi-leaning three-wheeler, kind of like a Honda Gyro.
The front main frame is connected to the rear section via a pivot axle. It tilts in corners while the section remains stable through all corners without tilting.
BMW designed it to be a more versatile cargo tricycle that still makes it fun to ride, without taking the exercise component, or compromise its cargo carrying capability.
As such, the rider still needs to pedal but will benefit from an electric assist thanks to the built-in electric motor. Pedaling also powers the leaning ability, making it light and responsive even with a heavy load.
Over the rear wheels is a versatile, pick-up-style transport platform. This can be fitted with a variety of modular attachments for carrying luggage and/or children. It can be fitted with a simple basket, box for food or cargo, rack for a surfboard, or even a chair for an infant. It’s also been designed with weatherproofing protection to make it safe to use in all weather conditions.
Clever Commute Concept
The second vehicle is an electronic kick-scooter with a twist. This was has been designed to be used with public transportation. As such, BMW paid extra attention into how it can fold and make itself much more compact while still retaining the larger wheels and long wheelbase that can absorb road potholes and uneven sidewalks better.
The Clever Commute features a footboard that can fold up and a rear wheel that can pivot. As such, when space is a problem, the footboard flips up while the rear wheel can be folded into it. This makes it small enough to fit on an escalator to say… the MRT… lengthwise. It can still be rolled along on its wheels when folded like this. The rider can also still use the throttle to make rolling it up steep ramps easier. By folding the handlebars, it can also fit into a BMW’s (3 Series or larger) trunk.
Both micromobility concepts have been designed to offer a range of over 20 kilometres (12 miles) on one charge. One final very important feature for city use is the battery pack, which can be removed and charged at home.
For now, both are just concepts, however BMW says the Dynamic Cargo is already in discussions with potential licensees.
