French mobility-startup CIXI (based in Annecy, Haute-Savoie) is developing a novel “active vehicle” called the VIGOZ that seeks to combine elements of cycling and electric vehicle driving into one platform. The slogan: a vehicle you pedal, that still functions on highways, giving you both physical activity plus transport.
The Concept & Vision
CIXI positions the VIGOZ as part of a shift from passive commuting to active mobility. Founder Pierre Francis describes how everyday commuting (by car) produces physical inactivity and mental numbness, and the VIGOZ is meant as “active meditation” during travel.
Key ambitions:
- Blend daily transport + moderate physical activity (pedaling) to integrate healthy movement into routine.
- Make a vehicle that is highway-compatible, yet fundamentally different from a traditional car—lighter, more efficient, physically engaging.
- Promote sustainability: local design/manufacture in France, durable lifecycle, replaceable parts, active rather than passive mobility.
“An active vehicle to pedal up to 120 km/h comfortably, safely and intuitively.”
Technical Specifications & Features
Here are the key specs and feature highlights for the VIGOZ, according to published sources.
Performance & drive system:
- Top speed: up to 120 km/h (≈75 mph) projected for production. Prototype tested to ~100 km/h.
- Battery pack: 22 kWh (under‐floor) enabling an estimated range of 160 km (≈100 miles) in mixed use; with pedaling input and regenerative braking helping extend range.
- Drivetrain: The key innovation is the “PERS” (Pedaling Energy Recovery System) — a chainless pedaling system wherein human pedaling contributes energy (and vehicle can still be pedaled even when battery is exhausted) and braking regenerates battery.
- Vehicle dimensions: Width ~154 cm, length ~350 cm, height ~165 cm.
- Weight: Sources say prototype weight is approx 550 kg.
- Road homologation: Intended for use on all public roads, including highways (which is exceptional for a pedaled/assisted vehicle).
Body, safety & ergonomics:
- Seats two occupants, protected by a weather-sealed “bubble” cabin. Rear cargo / passenger space for versatility.
- Active tilting mechanism: The vehicle leans into corners (tilting ~25°) to improve handling and rider experience.
- Safety features: Designed with energy-absorbing chassis elements, seat belts, crash‐safe architecture for highway use.
- Comfort features: HVAC / climate control, sliding windows for weather protection yet open feel.
- Ergonomics: Recumbent seating position, optimum visibility, optimized for pedaling comfort and daily commuting.
Pedaling system (PERS) details:
- No mechanical chain or belt in the pedaling path (hence “chainless”). The human pedaling generates electric energy which either drives the vehicle or feeds battery.
- Pedaling also serves for braking (reverse pedaling to slow).
- Pedal resistance is modulated: users can select their level of effort (light/moderate/strong) and the system adapts.
Manufacturing & lifecycle:
- Designed and assembled in Poisy (Haute-Savoie), France. Emphasis on local economy, European manufacturing.
- Lifecycle target: at least 15 years of use before end‐of‐life recycling. Modular body panels and accessible components support that.
Use-Cases & User Experience
The VIGOZ envisages a variety of use-cases:
- Commuting & Everyday Mobility: For city-to-suburb trips (~20-50 km), offering a more active alternative to car, less effort than bicycle yet faster and more comfortable.
- Active Lifestyle: Users who value physical activity but still need weather-protected, all-weather mobility. The pedaling system means you get exercise even in commute.
- Outdoor & Leisure Use: The tilting system, compact size, and cargo/passenger capacity allow use for mountain roads, ski accessories, pet/cargo. (They mention “Outdoor: Tilting 25° | Ski accessory compatible” in feature list.)
- Sustainable Mobility: For eco-conscious drivers wanting less passive transport, lower energy usage, and local production.
CIXI – VIGOZ, an active vehicle to pedal up to 120 km/h comfortably