Innovative Kinner-car showcased at cycling event in Lahti, Finland

The concept of lightness takes center stage in innovative vehicle design, reminiscent of Colin Chapman, the creator of the Lotus sports car, who aimed for a single component to perform multiple functions for efficiency. In Finland, the Kinner-car embodies this philosophy, featuring ultra-lightweight construction with road bike tires, an aluminum frame, and a composite body. A seven-speed electric motor further eases the strain on the rider’s muscles.

Ari-Jukka Luomaranta, along with his partners, demonstrates a blend of cutting-edge technology and traditional design. This combination ensures smooth rides for both the driver and any passengers. The Kinner-car was recently tested at a gravel cycling event in Lahti, where the scenic shores of Lake Vesijärvi served as a picturesque testing ground.

Users can adjust assistance levels and activate headlights via a smartphone. With electric assistance reaching speeds of up to 25 kilometers per hour, users enjoy an exhilarating ride. Remarkably, the vehicle, which weighs over 250 kg, operates independently without additional pushing from the inventor.

The Kinner-car’s combination of an electric reverse gear and pedal assistance up to 45 km/h qualifies it as a moped requiring a specific license to operate. Luomaranta, a string instrument maker with a passion for vintage cars and aeronautics, conceived the idea during discussions in a sauna, envisioning a micromobility solution between bicycles and cars as urban landscapes evolve.

Meanwhile, the Scouter, an electric vehicle introduced in Tampere, presents a similar vision for urban transport, aiming for a balance between convenience and environmental sustainability. Both vehicles represent a shift towards lightweight electric options, catering to short city commutes and easing congestion.