The startup KG Motors from Hiroshima, Japan, has introduced mibot — a miniature single-seat electric car with a range of 100 km, a 5-hour charging time, and a top speed of 60 km/h. In size, it is smaller than a refrigerator, in appearance — a futuristic golf cart, but in concept — a revolution. The price starts at 1 million yen (approximately $7,000 USD), and already more than half of the 3,300 vehicles planned by 2027 have been pre-ordered.
“Cars are too big,” explains the startup’s founder, Kazunari Kusunoki. It was the narrow streets of Japanese towns and the mobility challenges in rural areas that inspired him to create mibot. He is convinced: every individual, not just every family, should have access to personal transportation. Especially at an age when public transport is no longer an option.
By the way, such vehicles could be extremely relevant in Ukraine as well. For elderly people, war veterans, and combat participants with disabilities — a compact, easy-to-handle electric car could be a real lifesaver for daily mobility. And considering the rapid rise in fuel prices — it could also be an economical solution.
KG Motors plans to produce up to 10,000 such vehicles annually. And although the first batch will be loss-making, the company is betting on simplicity: minimal electronics, a lightweight body, and maximum utility for those who truly need transportation without excess.