BMW K100 Electric Conversion: Turn the Classic “Flying Brick” Into an Electric Motorcycle
As a specialist EV conversion factory, CMVTE supplies complete electric conversion solutions for the BMW K100 — motor, controller, lithium battery pack and charger. Keep the K100’s iconic frame and riding feel, and gain zero emissions, instant torque and a smooth, silent ride.
What Is a BMW K100 Electric Conversion?
A BMW K100 electric conversion means removing the original inline-four petrol engine, fuel tank, exhaust and cooling system and replacing them with an electric motor, lithium battery pack, motor controller and charging system. A converted K100 typically delivers 20–35 kW of motor power, a 5–8 kWh battery pack and 100–160 km of range — keeping the classic looks while adding zero-emission, gear-free, low-maintenance riding.
About the BMW K100: A Classic Worth Electrifying
Built from 1983–1992, the BMW K100 earned the nickname “The Flying Brick” thanks to its longitudinal, water-cooled inline-four layout. Its rugged frame, solid build quality and generous engine bay make it an ideal platform for an electric conversion — the original structure easily accommodates a battery pack and motor.
| Spec | Stock K100 (Petrol) | Typical After EV Conversion |
|---|---|---|
| Power source | Inline-four petrol engine | Permanent-magnet motor (PMSM) |
| Power output | ~66 kW (90 hp) | 20–35 kW (higher peak available) |
| Energy / tank | ~22 L petrol | 5–8 kWh lithium battery |
| Kerb weight | ~239 kg | ~180–210 kg (battery dependent) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual | Single-speed / gearless |
| Range | — | ~100–160 km |
| Maintenance | Oil, spark plugs, timing | Near maintenance-free |
| Emissions / noise | Exhaust + engine noise | Zero emissions · silent |
Why Convert a BMW K100 to Electric?
Instant Torque
An electric motor delivers peak torque from zero rpm, giving more direct, linear acceleration than the stock petrol engine — smooth power with no gear changes needed.
Zero Emissions · Silent
No exhaust fumes and no engine roar. Ride freely into low-emission city zones and enjoy a quiet, refined experience.
Low Maintenance
Say goodbye to oil changes, spark plugs, timing chains and carburettor tuning. With far fewer moving parts, long-term running costs drop significantly.
Keep the Classic Looks
The conversion retains the K100’s original frame, wheels and styling — a sustainable way to renew and extend the life of a classic instead of scrapping it.
Customisable Performance
A programmable controller lets you tune power, torque and ride modes to suit city commuting or longer touring.
Factory-Grade Quality
CMVTE has manufactured its own motors since 1995, using EVE cells and an automotive-grade BMS, with key components CE certified.
What Components Does a K100 EV Conversion Need?
A complete BMW K100 electric conversion kit usually includes the parts below. CMVTE supplies the full drivetrain, wiring diagrams and installation guidance:
Electric Motor
A permanent-magnet motor replaces the petrol engine in its original position and provides the main drive. For the K100 we recommend 20 kW or more to match the bike’s weight.
Motor Controller
Regulates motor speed and torque and controls voltage/current output. Programmable for different ride modes and safety protections.
Lithium Battery Pack
A LiFePO4 battery pack with an automotive-grade BMS determines range and can be custom-sized to fit the frame space.
Onboard Charger
An efficient smart charger with wide-voltage input and IP66 waterproofing enables safe home charging with full-charge auto cut-off.
DC-DC Converter
Steps the high-voltage battery down to 12 V to power the lights, dashboard, signals and other original low-voltage electrics.
Dashboard & Wiring
Displays speed, state of charge (SOC) and gear, and comes with a complete harness and wiring diagram for hassle-free installation.
An EV Drive Kit Suited to the K100
PMSM Motor + Programmable Controller Kit
For motorcycles and light vehicles, CMVTE offers permanent-magnet motor kits in multiple power ratings (from 4 kW/60V–72V motorcycle kits up to higher-power PMSM solutions). Choose the right configuration for the top speed, range and weight you expect from your K100.
- Motor typePermanent-magnet PMSM (high efficiency)
- Voltage platform60V / 72V and higher
- BatteryEVE cells · automotive-grade BMS
- ControllerProgrammable · multi ride modes
- CertificationKey parts CE · ISO9001
- IncludedHarness + wiring diagram + install guide
How to Choose the Right Battery & Range
Battery capacity is the single biggest factor in your K100’s range, weight and cost. A converted motorcycle typically consumes roughly 40–60 Wh per km, so you can size the pack to your real-world riding needs. Use the guide below as a starting point:
| Battery Capacity | Est. Real Range* | Best For | Added Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 kWh | ~70–95 km | Short city commuting, budget builds | Lightest |
| 6 kWh | ~110–140 km | Best all-round balance (recommended) | Moderate |
| 8 kWh | ~150–190 km | Touring & longer daily distances | Heaviest |
*Estimates only. Real range depends on riding speed, rider weight, terrain, temperature and riding style.
Voltage Platform
Higher voltage (72V+) generally gives better efficiency and higher top speed. Match the voltage to your motor and controller for the best performance.
Cell Chemistry
LiFePO4 offers excellent safety and long cycle life; NMC packs a higher energy density for more range in the same space. CMVTE advises based on your priorities.
Weight Balance
A bigger battery adds range but also weight. We position the pack low and central to preserve the K100’s handling and balance.
BMW K100 Electric Conversion Cost Estimate
The total cost of a K100 conversion depends mainly on battery capacity, motor power and whether you install it yourself or have it done professionally. The breakdown below gives a realistic guide to the main component costs:
| Component | Typical Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Electric motor (PMSM) | $800 – $2,500 | Depends on power rating (20–35 kW) |
| Motor controller | $300 – $900 | Programmable, matched to motor |
| Lithium battery pack | $1,500 – $4,500 | Largest cost — scales with kWh |
| Onboard charger | $150 – $500 | Wide-voltage, IP66 |
| DC-DC converter | $60 – $200 | Powers 12V electrics |
| Dashboard, harness & adapters | $200 – $700 | Mounts, wiring, display |
| Installation labour (optional) | $1,000 – $3,000 | Skip if doing a DIY build |
Budget DIY Build
~$3,500 – $6,000
Smaller ~4 kWh battery, mid-power motor, self-installed. Great for shorter city rides.
Balanced Build
~$6,000 – $9,500
~6 kWh battery, strong motor, some professional help. The most popular choice.
Premium Build
~$9,500 – $14,000+
~8 kWh battery, high-power motor, full professional installation and tuning.
The Basic Steps of a K100 EV Conversion
Assess & Spec
Confirm your target top speed, range and budget, then select motor power, voltage platform and battery capacity around the K100’s frame space.
Remove the Petrol System
Take out the petrol engine, fuel tank, exhaust and cooling system, then clean and reinforce the battery mounting area.
Install Motor & Drive
Mount the motor in the original drivetrain position via adapters and connect to the existing final drive/chain, keeping the output aligned.
Fit Battery & Electronics
Install the lithium battery, controller, DC-DC and charger, and connect the high- and low-voltage harnesses per the wiring diagram.
Dashboard & Commissioning
Wire up the dashboard for speed and charge, program the controller, and test braking, lighting and safety protections.
Road Test & Handover
Complete the first charge and shakedown ride, verify range and performance, then hand over with ongoing technical support.
Our BMW Electric Conversion Projects
CMVTE has extensive experience converting BMW vehicles to electric. Below are some of the BMW projects we’ve completed — useful technical references for your K100 build:
BMW X3 Electric Conversion
A complete EV conversion solution for the BMW X3 SUV.
View case study →BMW Mini Classic Electric Conversion
Electrifying the classic Mini — retro looks with a modern EV drivetrain.
View case study →BMW M2 EV Conversion Kit
A 32 kW two-in-one drive system for a performance-focused M2 conversion.
View case study →BMW E46 Electric Conversion
An EV conversion for the classic 3 Series E46 with full motor, battery and electronics.
View case study →BMW K100 Electric Conversion FAQs
How far and fast can a converted K100 go?
How much does a K100 electric conversion cost?
Do you supply the complete EV drive system?
Will the conversion damage the original K100 frame?
What battery cells do you use and are they safe?
Is there a warranty and after-sales support?
Are the products certified? Can you export to Europe?
Get a Custom Electric Conversion Plan for Your BMW K100
Tell us your target top speed, range and budget, and the CMVTE factory will match the ideal motor, battery and complete EV drivetrain for your K100.
