A French Answer to Urban Chaos
Every few years, someone in Europe tries to reinvent the wheel — literally. This time, the bold idea comes from France. A small e-mobility company called AEMotion has unveiled a prototype that’s part motorcycle, part microcar, and fully electric. The goal? To combine the agility of two wheels with the comfort and safety of four.
AEMotion’s unnamed prototype, which insiders have nicknamed “the tilting four-wheeler,” aims to make traffic jams a thing of the past. Designed for narrow city streets, it’s barely 31 inches wide, meaning two could easily share a single parking space.
A Microcar That Leans Like a Motorcycle
Unlike most small EVs, AEMotion’s creation leans into corners — up to 35 degrees. That’s right: it tilts like a sport bike. Steering is done via handlebars, and the seating is tandem-style, with the passenger right behind the driver. The experience is said to feel “half motorcycle, half fighter jet cockpit.”
This unique tilting system gives riders the dynamic feel of a two-wheeler while keeping the stability of four wheels — an impressive technical feat for a vehicle of its size.
Performance That Makes Sense
Under its sleek, enclosed shell, the AEMotion tilting EV packs a modest but capable electric drivetrain.
-
Top speed: around 71 mph (114 km/h)
-
Range options:
-
Fixed battery: up to 124 miles (200 km)
-
Swappable battery: around 43 miles (70 km) per pack
-
That swappable system could be a game-changer for dense cities — think “energy bars” you can swap out in minutes rather than wait for charging.
Safety First, Even at 31 Inches Wide
Safety is often the weak point of microcars, but AEMotion took it seriously. Both occupants are strapped in with four-point harnesses, and the vehicle uses automotive-grade crash simulations for structural integrity.
Its shell incorporates EPP foam bumpers, energy-absorbing crash boxes, and interior EPP lining that acts as a “passive airbag system.” Combine that with hydraulic disc brakes, and you’ve got a tiny commuter that doesn’t feel fragile.
Design Quirks and French Flair
No French invention would be complete without a bit of eccentricity. The AEMotion microcar has doors with windows but open lower halves, meaning your legs are out in the open. Whether it’s for ventilation, aesthetics, or just a bit of fun, no one’s quite sure — but it’s undeniably memorable.
It also balances itself when parked, no kickstand required. Inside, the rear seat slides forward to create extra cargo space, proving that practicality was part of the plan.
Launch Plans and Availability
AEMotion plans to launch in France with a subscription-style lease at about €200 per month. Buyers won’t be able to purchase outright at first. A small pilot batch will roll out later in 2026, with full production expected around 2028. A standard car license will be enough to drive in France.
Why It Matters
The AEMotion tilting electric microcar represents a fresh approach to urban mobility — compact, clever, and undeniably European. It’s not here to replace cars or bikes but to fill the gap between them.
If it succeeds, it could inspire a new class of EVs designed for crowded city life: safe, stylish, and sustainable.