The Belgian startup Any wants to make electric motorcycles a practical option for everyday use, not merely a form of light transportation. It has therefore developed the LUV1, a modular electric motorcycle that provides up to 120 liters of cargo space and a top speed of 100 kilometers per hour.
Any is targeting a clear obstacle in the shift from cars to two-wheeled vehicles: the ability to carry groceries, bags, and work equipment. The LUV1 lets users choose between an open frame and a frame equipped with different panels, allowing them to carry pets, work equipment, or camping supplies. Additional options include a windscreen, racks, a rain cover, and other equipment aimed at commuters, families, and outdoor enthusiasts.
A motorcycle that goes beyond traditional use
Lowie Vermeersch, the former design director at Pininfarina, designed the motorcycle’s modular platform. Vermeersch, the founder of Granstudio, serves as Any’s creative director and is also one of its investors. LUV1 prototypes appeared during Milan Design Week in May, before the company launched its pre-order campaign and a vehicle customization tool.
Prices start at 7,000 euros, while the final price varies according to the equipment selected by the customer. Any says the LUV1 is closer in price to electric cargo bikes than to cars, while offering greater speed. According to the company’s wording, an A1 license should be sufficient to ride it, a license that is easier to obtain in most places, but the actual requirements remain tied to local regulations.
Early indicators and funding needs
Eric De Winter, the co-founder and chief commercial officer, said the company received more than 600 reservations during the first 100 days. The reservation requires a fee of 49 euros, which is deducted from the purchase price, and Any’s terms say it is fully refundable.
The company raised 1.5 million euros in November, then added 1.25 million euros in May, bringing its total funding to 2.75 million euros. It is led by Peter Van de Velde, who joined as chief executive officer a year ago, while Alessandro Mangano took on the role of head of engineering after working at Aprilia, Ferrari, and Piaggio Group.
Why does this news matter?
Any is betting that cargo space, rather than speed or range alone, is the factor that could persuade car users to try a two-wheeled electric vehicle. The LUV1 operates with two swappable batteries that provide a range of up to 87 miles per charge, but it is entering a market in which electric models from companies such as Piaggio and Harley-Davidson are expanding.
The company says it has received interest from organizations working in last-mile delivery, and that its plan includes developing a range of vehicles that could include a three-wheeled model. However, this step is not currently a priority; Any first needs to increase production in preparation for its initial deliveries. It is therefore seeking a Series A funding round worth approximately 10 million euros or more and hopes to close it by the end of the year.
The real test for the LUV1 will be converting reservations into actual production and deliveries while maintaining its promise of flexibility and cargo space, without allowing the range of options to complicate manufacturing or raise the final price. The source does not provide a specific date for the start of deliveries or details about the markets in which the motorcycle will be available.