French e-mobility company Cixi has officially unveiled the latest prototype of its Vigoz vehicle — a chainless, pedal-assisted three-wheeler designed to reach highway speeds. The Vigoz is built around the company’s custom-developed drivetrain, which eliminates traditional bike chains and belts in favor of an electric system that transforms human pedaling into propulsion.
Founded roughly a decade ago in the Haute-Savoie region of France, Cixi has focused on developing a unique drivetrain it calls the Pedaling Energy Recovery System (PERS). According to the company, the system “converts human power into bicycle propulsion through electricity, enabling the rider to intuitively control speed and braking by pedaling.” Energy generated while pedaling is collected at the crank and transformed into electricity, which powers a hub motor.
This system also charges an onboard battery pack, which increases the vehicle’s power and range. Regenerative braking is built into the system as well, designed to reduce brake wear. The pedal resistance is said to adjust in real-time, allowing riders to “choose your preferred rhythm and enjoy the ride.” If the battery runs out, the rider can still pedal to move the vehicle, but without the benefit of electrical assistance.
The Vigoz places the rider — or “pilot” as the company puts it — in a recumbent position inside a compact, enclosed cockpit. The rider’s head sits about 130 cm (51 inches) above the ground for improved visibility, and steering is handled through side-mounted control handles. An active tilting system helps the vehicle lean into turns, enhancing stability and control.
Behind the pilot’s seat, there’s enough room for “a passenger, a pet or big stuff,” though the company notes that luggage is strapped into an open section at the back. Both occupants are protected by three-point seatbelts inside a streamlined chassis that includes energy-absorbing elements for safety in case of a collision. An HVAC system is also integrated into the cockpit to maintain a comfortable interior temperature.
The Vigoz is powered by a 22-kWh battery located beneath the floor. Cixi is targeting a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph), with a claimed per-charge range of up to 160 km (around 100 miles). The skeletal prototype has already reached 100 km/h in testing, bringing it close to the final performance goal.
Cixi plans to combine the new design prototype with the previously tested mechanical mule into a final version that integrates all technical systems with a production-ready appearance. The vehicle will then enter the certification phase before full-scale production begins. Reservations are expected to open once the development timeline is finalized, though pricing details have not yet been disclosed.
Source: Cixi
