CE 02 vs TVS X
The electric scooter revolution is here, and two fascinating machines are capturing attention in distinctly different ways. The BMW CE 02 represents European engineering prowess with its quirky, futuristic design and premium positioning, while the TVS X showcases India’s growing capability in electric mobility with cutting-edge technology and impressive performance figures. Both scooters aim to redefine urban mobility for the electric age, but they approach this mission from vastly different philosophical and practical standpoints. This comprehensive comparison will help you understand which electric scooter deserves your consideration in 2025.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Electric Scooter Landscape
Before diving into the specifics, it’s worth noting what makes these scooters special in the burgeoning electric two-wheeler market. Neither is a budget-friendly commuter option—both command premium prices and target enthusiasts who want more than basic transportation. They’re statement pieces that combine technology, performance, and unique design to create something beyond mere utility.
The BMW CE 02 is Germany’s answer to urban electric mobility, bringing BMW Motorrad’s engineering expertise to a compact, accessible package. The TVS X represents India’s most ambitious electric scooter project, built on an all-new platform with global aspirations. Interestingly, BMW has partnered with TVS Motor Company for manufacturing the CE 02 in India, creating a fascinating connection between these competitors.
Pricing: The Premium Question
Let’s address the elephant in the room—both scooters are expensive by Indian electric scooter standards. The ex-showroom price of BMW CE 02 is Rs. 4,49,900 and TVS X is Rs. 2,63,880. The TVS X is cheaper than the BMW CE 02 by a substantial Rs. 1,86,020.
In international markets, the BMW CE 02 is priced at $7,599 in the United States, with the Highline package adding $875. The 2025 on-road price of BMW CE 02 in Delhi is Rs. 4,62,929, making it one of the most expensive electric scooters available in India.
The TVS X starts at Rs. 2.50 lakh (ex-showroom, Bengaluru), making it India’s most expensive electric scooter from a domestic manufacturer. That price tag makes it the most expensive electric scooter to go on sale in India from an Indian brand. As the TVS X costs more than Rs. 1.5 lakh, it will not be considered part of the Fame II subsidy, meaning buyers won’t receive government incentives.
This price differential is significant. The BMW costs nearly double what the TVS X commands, placing them in different market segments despite their comparable capabilities. The BMW targets buyers for whom brand prestige matters as much as performance, while the TVS X appeals to tech-savvy enthusiasts seeking maximum features at a relatively lower (though still premium) price point.
Power and Performance: Different Approaches to Speed
Both scooters deliver impressive performance that puts them in a league above typical commuter electric scooters, though their specifications differ meaningfully.
BMW CE 02 Performance:
The BMW CE 02 is powered by an electric motor producing 15 bhp and 55 Nm of torque. The scooter has two removable battery packs and can go from 0 to 50 km/h in just 3 seconds. The CE 02 features an air-cooled synchronous electric motor with permanent magnet technology.
BMW CE 02 has a top speed of 95 kmph, which is electronically limited for safety and regulatory compliance. The motor produces its power at 5000 rpm, and the instant torque delivery characteristic of electric motors makes acceleration feel immediate and linear. The scooter offers multiple riding modes including Flow and Surf, with an optional Flash mode available with the Highline Package for even more aggressive performance.
TVS X Performance:
The TVS X is equipped with a powerful BLDC electric motor capable of delivering peak power of 11000W (approximately 14.7 bhp). The motor produces an impressive 40 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful electric scooters in its segment.
TVS X has a top speed of 105 kmph, giving it a 10 km/h advantage over the BMW. In terms of acceleration, the TVS X can sprint from 0 to 40 km/h in a mere 2.6 seconds, showcasing explosive performance. The scooter offers three riding modes: Xtealth (for efficiency), Xtride (balanced), and Xonic (maximum performance).
The TVS X’s higher top speed and aggressive acceleration make it the more performance-oriented option on paper. For riders who crave that extra dose of speed and the bragging rights of breaking the 100 km/h barrier, the TVS has a clear advantage.
Range and Battery: The Critical Difference
Range anxiety remains the primary concern for electric vehicle buyers, and this is where these scooters diverge significantly.
BMW CE 02 Range:
The CE 02 is equipped with two removable 1.96-kWh battery packs (3.92 kWh total capacity) that provide a claimed range of 108 km under ideal conditions. The scooter’s range of up to 56 miles (approximately 90 km) is more realistic in mixed riding conditions.
The BMW’s removable batteries are a significant advantage. Each battery weighs approximately 12 kg and can be carried indoors for charging. The charging time is 5.12 hours using a standard household outlet. This removable design means you can charge batteries at your office desk or apartment without needing dedicated parking infrastructure.
TVS X Range:
The TVS X features a substantially larger 4.44 kWh battery pack that delivers a claimed IDC (Indian Driving Conditions) range of 140 km. The TVS X offers range of 140 km/charge, providing 32 kilometers more range than the BMW on a full charge.
The TVS X is equipped with fast charging technology. The 3kW Smart X Home rapid charger can charge the battery from 0% to 50% in approximately 50 minutes. The standard 950W portable charger achieves 0-80% charge in around 4 hours and 30 minutes. The battery is integrated into the scooter between the twin-spar frame rails, contributing to a lower center of gravity but eliminating the convenience of removable charging.
For riders who prioritize range and fast charging over battery portability, the TVS X offers clear advantages. The 140 km range makes it viable for longer commutes and weekend rides without range anxiety, while the fast charging option means you can top up quickly during breaks.
Design Philosophy: Quirky German vs Sporty Indian
Both scooters reject conventional scooter aesthetics in favor of bold, distinctive designs, though they express this differently.
BMW CE 02 Design:
The BMW CE 02 is a premium, unique-looking electric scooter with a design that’s deliberately unconventional. It features a double-loop tubular frame that’s partially exposed, giving it an industrial, skeletal appearance. The CE 02 is available in 2 colours: Cosmic Black Two and Cosmic Black.
The design is distinctly BMW with angular lines, sharp edges, and a minimalist aesthetic. The single-sided swingarm, exposed frame elements, and compact proportions give it a “parkourer” character—agile, compact, and designed for urban environments. At 142 kg kerb weight with a seat height of 745 mm, it’s accessible to riders of various sizes.
The CE 02’s aesthetic is polarizing—you either love its futuristic, rebellious styling or find it too unconventional. It looks like nothing else on the road, which is precisely the point. BMW describes it as designed for “Generation Z” riders who want to stand out.
TVS X Design:
The TVS X draws inspiration from the Creon electric scooter concept unveiled years earlier. It presents sharp-edged body panels, well-defined lines, and unique creases that contribute to an undeniably sporty look. The scooter’s youthful and dynamic design is highlighted by multiple body panels with fluid contours.
Built on the TVS Xleton platform, the X features a premium cast aluminum alloy twin-spar frame that’s partially exposed, creating a naked, performance-oriented aesthetic. The TVS X is available in 1 primary colour (Red) with the exposed aluminum frame providing contrast.
With a kerb weight of 130-135 kg and seat height of 770 mm, the TVS X is slightly lighter and has a marginally higher seat compared to the BMW. The design is overtly sporty with aggressive stance, angular body panels, and a maxi-scooter format that looks more like a small motorcycle than a traditional scooter.
The TVS X’s design will appeal to riders wanting a sporty, performance-focused aesthetic without being as unconventional as the BMW. It’s bold but more familiar in its sportbike-inspired styling.
Technology and Features: Where Premium Meets Innovation
Both scooters pack impressive technology, though the TVS X offers a more comprehensive feature set at its lower price point.
BMW CE 02 Features:
The CE 02 includes a 3.5-inch TFT display that provides essential information clearly. Standard features include LED lighting throughout, keyless ignition (Keyless Ride), reverse mode for parking assistance, and smartphone connectivity for basic functions.
The optional Highline Package adds significant features including the Flash riding mode, heated grips, quickshifter-style mode selector, and additional connectivity features. The instrument cluster is functional but relatively modest compared to what the TVS offers.
BMW focuses on quality execution of essential features rather than overwhelming buyers with technology. The riding modes (Flow for relaxed cruising, Surf for sporty riding, and Flash for maximum performance) are intuitive and effective.
TVS X Features:
The TVS X is a technology showcase featuring a massive 10.2-inch X-Tilt TFT panoramic touchscreen—one of the largest instrument clusters on any two-wheeler. This display can be tilted for optimal visibility and supports extensive customization with multiple widgets, themes, and even video playback and games.
The TVS X comes loaded with single-channel ABS, hazard warning indicator, GPS & navigation, call/SMS alerts, geo-fencing, distance to empty indicator, and average speed indicator. The TVS SmartXconnect platform integrates navigation with EV-specific routing that anticipates charging station locations.
Additional features include TVS Smart Xhield providing crash alerts and dedicated assistance, live vehicle location-sharing (an industry-first), cruise control, OTA (Over-The-Air) updates, central locking, and anti-theft alarm. The scooter even includes regenerative braking (KERS – Kinetic Energy Recovery System) that returns energy to the battery during deceleration.
The TVS X’s feature list is staggering and surpasses many cars in connectivity and convenience features. For tech enthusiasts, this is a significant selling point that helps justify its premium pricing.
Build Quality and Platform: Engineering Excellence
Both manufacturers have invested significantly in creating dedicated electric platforms rather than converting existing designs.
BMW CE 02 Platform:
The CE 02 is built on a dedicated electric platform featuring a double-loop tubular frame designed specifically for electric propulsion. The frame provides excellent rigidity while keeping weight manageable. The single-sided swingarm is borrowed from BMW’s motorcycle heritage, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional advantages for wheel maintenance.
The telescopic front fork and rear monoshock provide a balanced ride quality that’s firm enough for enthusiastic riding while remaining comfortable for daily use. The 12-inch wheels provide a good balance between agility and stability.
TVS X Platform:
The TVS X is built on the TVS Xleton platform, featuring a premium cast aluminum alloy twin-spar frame. This frame claims to surpass standard underbone frames in both torsional stiffness (more than 2 times) and vertical stiffness (more than 4 times), leading to improved agility and handling precision.
The placement of the 4.44 kWh battery between the frame spars contributes to a low center of gravity, enhancing handling dynamics. The exposed frame elements give the scooter its distinctive naked aesthetic while showcasing the engineering.
The TVS X features a unique ram air-cooled motor system, introducing passive cooling that enhances sustained performance. The suspension includes telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock tuned for sporty riding. Both wheels are 12-inch alloys wearing 100mm front and 110mm rear tubeless tires.
Braking and Safety: Stopping Power
Both scooters feature disc brakes front and rear, though their implementations differ.
BMW CE 02 Braking:
The CE 02 features disc brakes at both ends with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for safe, controlled stopping. The braking system is adequate for the scooter’s performance but isn’t particularly noteworthy—it does the job competently without standout features.
TVS X Braking:
The TVS X is equipped with a 220mm front disc and 195mm rear disc brake supported by single-channel ABS—making it the only electric scooter in India to offer ABS as standard. The larger front disc provides strong, progressive braking power.
Additionally, the regenerative braking system (KERS) not only helps recharge the battery but also provides supplementary engine braking, reducing wear on mechanical brakes. The combination of mechanical and regenerative braking gives the TVS X excellent stopping power with added efficiency benefits.
Storage and Practicality: Daily Usability
Practical storage matters for daily commuting, and both scooters offer decent solutions.
BMW CE 02 Storage:
The CE 02 provides modest under-seat storage that can accommodate small items but won’t fit a full-face helmet. The compact design prioritizes agility over cargo capacity. However, the removable batteries mean you don’t sacrifice storage space to battery weight when charging separately.
TVS X Storage:
The TVS X offers a spacious 19-liter under-seat storage compartment that can accommodate a full-face helmet and additional belongings. This is significantly more practical than the BMW for riders who need to carry gear regularly.
The generous storage makes the TVS X more versatile for grocery runs, carrying work bags, or storing rain gear—practical considerations that matter in daily use.
User Reviews and Real-World Feedback
Real owner experiences provide valuable context beyond specifications.
BMW CE 02 Reception:
According to user ratings, BMW CE 02 has a score of 3.9/5. The lower rating likely reflects limited availability and the relatively small user base in India. International reviews praise its build quality, unique design, and BMW’s attention to detail. Critics note the limited range and high price as primary concerns.
TVS X Reception:
The TVS X is rated 3.5/5 based on early user feedback. Users appreciate the powerful motor, impressive feature set, and striking design. Common criticisms include the high price point, real-world range falling short of claimed figures (approximately 100-110 km in typical use), and the fixed battery eliminating charging flexibility.
Positive feedback consistently highlights the massive TFT screen, strong acceleration, premium build quality, and the pride of owning India’s most technologically advanced electric scooter.
The Verdict: Different Champions for Different Riders
Declaring a clear winner between these two scooters is challenging because they serve different buyer profiles despite surface similarities.
Choose the BMW CE 02 if:
- You prioritize brand prestige and European engineering heritage
- Removable batteries are essential for your charging situation
- You prefer compact, agile dimensions for dense urban environments
- The unique, unconventional design appeals to your aesthetic sensibilities
- You want the BMW Motorrad ownership experience
- You’re willing to accept shorter range for convenience and brand cachet
- You value minimalist design philosophy over feature abundance
- Budget is less of a concern and you want the premium German experience
Choose the TVS X if:
- Maximum range is a priority for your riding needs
- You want the most comprehensive feature set available
- Fast charging capability matters for your usage patterns
- Higher top speed and aggressive acceleration appeal to you
- You appreciate cutting-edge technology and connectivity
- More practical storage space is important for daily use
- You want to support Indian engineering excellence
- You seek premium features at a relatively lower price point than European alternatives
Final Thoughts: The Electric Future Arrives
Both the BMW CE 02 and TVS X represent significant achievements in electric scooter design, each pushing boundaries in different ways. The BMW brings Germanic precision, unconventional design, and the prestige of the BMW Motorrad badge to the electric scooter segment. It’s perfect for riders who view their scooter as a fashion statement and urban mobility solution where range is adequate for daily needs.
The TVS X demonstrates that Indian manufacturers can compete globally in technology, performance, and premium positioning. It offers substantially better range, more features, and stronger performance at nearly half the BMW’s price. For practical buyers seeking maximum value and capability, the TVS X presents a compelling proposition.
The choice ultimately depends on your priorities. If brand heritage, removable batteries, and unique design matter most, the BMW CE 02 justifies its premium despite limited range. If you want maximum technology, range, and performance in an electric scooter backed by Indian engineering prowess, the TVS X delivers exceptional value.
What both scooters prove is that electric mobility has evolved beyond basic commuting. These are aspirational products that excite enthusiasts, showcase advanced technology, and make strong statements about their owners’ values and taste. The electric revolution isn’t just about going green—it’s about going fast, looking good, and enjoying cutting-edge technology.
Test ride both scooters if possible to experience their different characters. Pay attention to which design resonates with you, which feature set aligns with your needs, and which riding experience puts a bigger smile on your face. Either choice represents joining the electric mobility revolution with style, performance, and purpose. The future of urban transportation is here, and it’s more exciting than ever before.
