Belgian Startup Any Debuts LUV1 to Bridge Gap Between Cargo Bikes and Cars

Belgian startup Any has unveiled the LUV1, a modular electric motorcycle designed to replace cars for urban residents. The vehicle introduces a new category called "Life Utility Vehicles" (LUV), aiming to provide the practicality of a car with the agility of a two-wheeler.

The LUV1 features a cargo capacity of 120 liters and reaches a top speed of 100 km/h (62 mph). In its extended configuration, the vehicle provides a range of up to 140 km (approximately 87 miles). Pricing for the modular electric motorcycle is listed between €7,000 and €10,000. To date, the startup has raised €2.75 million across two funding rounds, securing €1.5 million in November and €1.25 million in May.

The Utility Gap

The development of the LUV1 stems from a perceived lack of practical storage in traditional motorcycles, which often forces city dwellers to rely on cars for daily errands. According to the company via LinkedIn, the design process began by asking what a typical week requires—such as groceries, suitcases, and weekend bags—and ensuring those items would not be left behind simply because the user is on two wheels.

This positioning aligns with broader industry trends in Europe. The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers expects the two-wheeler market to be predominantly electric by 2030. By creating a hybrid between a cargo bike and a motorcycle, Any is targeting a demographic that requires more utility than a standard scooter but wants to avoid the congestion and costs associated with urban car ownership.

Design and Engineering

To ensure the LUV1 appeals to a high-end market, Any leveraged significant automotive expertise. The vehicle's design was led by Lowie Vermeersch, the former design director at Pininfarina, and his team at Granstudio. This focus on professional automotive styling suggests an attempt to elevate the utility EV space beyond purely functional, industrial designs.

Market Implications

If successful, the LUV1 could lower the barrier for urban residents to transition from four wheels to two. By solving the storage problem, Any is addressing one of the primary friction points of motorcycle adoption. The modular nature of the vehicle allows it to adapt to different user needs, potentially expanding its appeal from individual commuters to small-scale urban delivery services.

What's Next

While the LUV1 has been unveiled, the company's path to mass production remains the primary focus. Observers will be watching for confirmed production timelines and the official rollout of customer deliveries. Additionally, while the company has expressed interest in expanding its portfolio, the specific details of future models remain to be seen.