a New Form of Active Mobility
French e-mobility company Cixi has unveiled Vigoz, a three-wheeled vehicle designed around its chainless pedaling technology. Developed in Annecy, the model brings together recumbent cycling ergonomics and automotive-scale engineering, aiming to offer highway-ready performance in a compact frame.
At the core of Vigoz is Cixi’s Pedaling Energy Recovery System, which converts pedal input into electricity rather than relying on a traditional chain or belt. Power generated at the crank feeds a hub motor and a 22 kWh under-floor battery, with regenerative braking further extending range. The system automatically adjusts pedal resistance in real time, allowing the rider to choose between light-effort cruising or a more intensive workout.
The drivetrain ensures that even if the battery runs low, the vehicle remains operable through direct pedal power. By integrating energy recovery into every movement, Vigoz demonstrates how cycling mechanics can be scaled to a fully enclosed transport system.
Vigoz is a three wheeled vehicle developed by French company Cixi | images courtesy Cixi
cixi’s Chainless Pedaling System
Sitting within Cixi‘s Vigoz pedal car, the rider takes a reclined position. Head height is set at 130 centimeters (51 inches) to maintain visibility comparable to an SUV. Steering is controlled by low-mounted side handles, while an active tilting mechanism allows the tricycle to lean naturally into corners. These details reinforce the impression of a hybrid between a bicycle and a lightweight vehicle, tuned for both urban commutes and highway stretches.
A second seat is positioned behind the pilot, with space for a passenger, pet, or cargo. Both occupants are protected by a slender chassis fitted with three-point seatbelts and energy-absorbing structures. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning maintain cabin comfort in varying climates.
a reclined seating position places the pilot at SUV like head height for visibility
range and road use
Vigoz is designed for public roads, including highways, with a top speed of 120 km/h. Its range of 160 km per charge reflects conditions in the French Alps, where Cixi tested the vehicle for commutes across diverse terrain. Charging is completed in six hours on a household 220 V socket, aligning it with everyday electric vehicle use.
The visibility of the chassis, measuring 165 cm tall, ensures that Vigoz is easily seen by larger vehicles while giving the pilot a clear view of the road ahead. Combined with the tilting suspension, the vehicle is engineered for both stability and agility at speed.
the design integrates a chainless pedaling system that generates electric power
The bodywork has been designed with longevity in mind, using replaceable parts and accessible components for repair. Over-the-air updates will maintain software systems throughout its projected fifteen-year lifecycle before full recycling and disposal. Cixi emphasizes that this durability standard is central to the project, aligning with broader expectations for sustainable product design.
The production-ready design has now been unveiled, merging the earlier skeletal prototype with a finished exterior. Next steps involve certification before reservations are opened. Cixi has not yet announced pricing but has framed Vigoz as a long-term commitment to redefining active mobility on a larger scale.
Vigoz recharges in six hours from a standard 220 V household socket
active tilting allows the vehicle to lean smoothly into corners at speed
steering is controlled by low mounted handles on each side of the pilot
project info:
name: Vigoz
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