Lit Motors in San Francisco has created the Self-Balancing Electric Vehicle (AEV) or C-1, a hybrid vehicle that combines the thrill of a motorcycle with the safety and comfort of a car. The two-seat vehicle is designed to remain in a vertical position at all times thanks to gyroscope technology, ensuring maximum driver safety.
Lit Motors CEO Daniel Kim was inspired to create the AEV more than 20 years ago after a near-death experience with a chassis while assembling a Land Rover Defender. The company’s goal was to develop a hybrid vehicle that combined the best features of a car and a motorbike. The gyroscope technology used in the AEV enables it to stand upright after falling, making it both practical and safe for riders.
Safety is a top priority in the design of the AEV, with features like airbags, seat belts, and tempered glass ensuring the driver’s protection. The vehicle is designed to withstand impact, with Kim even claiming that it could survive hitting an elephant without collapsing. Lit Motors is working towards meeting European standards for their vehicles, which will expand their market reach and give them a competitive advantage.
The company plans to raise capital to further develop the AEV and aims to reach $5 million by September of this year. With 15% of pre-orders already coming from Germany and the UK, Lit Motors is well-poised to expand their production and make the AEV accessible to a broader audience. As sales increase, Kim envisions a gradual decrease in the price of the vehicle, making it more affordable for consumers worldwide.