Source: Interesting Engineering

French e-mobility pioneer and LEVA-EU member Cixi has unveiled the Vigoz, a futuristic three-wheeled vehicle that blurs the line between cycling and electric driving. Housed inside a bubble-like capsule, the Vigoz promises up to 160 km of range, a 120 km/h top speed, and room for two passengers, all powered by Cixi’s innovative chainless Pedaling Energy Recovery System (PERS).

At its core, PERS transforms pedaling into electricity rather than mechanical drive. Riders generate power at the crank, feeding a hub motor while simultaneously topping up the 22-kWh onboard battery. If the battery runs flat, pedal power still keeps the wheels turning, ensuring no trip ends stranded.

Performance isn’t an afterthought: a skeletal prototype has already hit 100 km/h, proving the Vigoz is capable of far more than urban cruising. The final design adds automotive-inspired safety, three-point seatbelts, an energy-absorbing chassis, and an enclosed cockpit to protect against weather and road debris. Inside, riders sit in a recumbent pilot’s seat, steering via side grips and leaning naturally into corners thanks to an active tilting system.

Beyond its futuristic feel, the Vigoz is built for practicality. Space behind the rider can hold a passenger, pet, or shopping bags, while the enclosed capsule offers comfort in all conditions. Regenerative braking further boosts efficiency, extending range and reducing maintenance.

Now entering the certification phase, the Vigoz is inching closer to production. Pricing and reservations remain under wraps, but the launch marks a bold step toward a new category of sustainable transport, a trike that feels more like a car than a bike.

Chainless Pedaling Tech

At the core of the Vigoz lies Cixi’s Pedaling Energy Recovery System (PERS), which replaces traditional chains and belts with electricity. Each pedal stroke generates power at the crank, driving a hub motor while recharging the battery. Real-time resistance control keeps pedaling smooth and natural, and even with a depleted battery, the rider can still move forward—just without the electric boost.

Tested to Highway Speeds

Performance has already been proven. A skeletal prototype clocked 100 km/h during trials, and the production model is expected to reach 120 km/h. That speed puts the Vigoz in a different class than conventional e-bikes or cargo trikes, making it a viable option for both city commutes and suburban travel

Recumbent Cockpit Design

The Vigoz places the rider in a reclined, recumbent seat inside a slim capsule. With a 130 cm head height for visibility, control comes via side-mounted grips, while an active tilting system allows the vehicle to lean naturally into corners. The result: a ride that feels dynamic yet stable across urban streets or winding roads.

Safety-First Approach

Borrowing cues from automotive design, the Vigoz prioritizes protection. Occupants are strapped in with three-point seatbelts, while the chassis integrates energy-absorbing structures to handle impacts. The enclosed cabin guards against weather and debris, placing the Vigoz closer to small EV safety standards than to bikes or scooters.

Passenger and Cargo Flexibility

Behind the rider, there’s space for a passenger, pet, or cargo. While luggage is stored in an open rear section, both rider and passenger remain enclosed within the cabin. This design gives the Vigoz a versatile edge, extending its utility beyond solo commuting to family or light cargo runs in compact city environments.

Range and Efficiency

Powered by a 22-kWh underfloor battery, the Vigoz promises up to 160 km on a single charge—enough for multiple commutes or even intercity journeys. Regenerative braking extends efficiency while reducing wear on brake pads. The hybrid pedal-plus-battery setup balances exercise, sustainability, and convenience.

Path to Production

The newly revealed prototype blends proven performance with production-ready styling. Certification is the next milestone before reservations open and pricing details are disclosed. Positioned as a bridge between bicycles and cars, the Vigoz reflects Cixi’s ambition to reimagine pedal-powered mobility for the modern age.