California-based Otherlab introduces Lightfoot, a two-seat electric cargo scooter that integrates a pair of solar panels directly into its clamshell body. Developed for short urban journeys rather than heroic highway pursuits, the vehicle combines the easy approachability of an electric scooter with the storage capacity of something considerably less dependent on a backpack. Its elongated bench accommodates two riders, while the broad rectangular silhouette places solar generation — usually added as an afterthought — right at the center of the design.
Inspired by familiar vehicles including the Vespa and Volkswagen bus, Lightfoot wraps its aircraft-grade aluminum frame with two 120-watt solar panels positioned along either side. The integrated array can add up to 18 miles (around 30 kilometers) of range per day under favorable conditions, with the company estimating roughly three additional miles for every hour of quality sunlight. It will not run forever on one suspiciously bright afternoon, but leaving it parked outdoors can reduce how often it needs to meet a wall socket.
Lightfoot integrates two solar panels directly into its clamshell bodywork | images: courtesy of Lightfoot
Behind the solar bodywork sits a weather-resistant, lockable cargo compartment offering 45.2 liters of storage. Current specifications list capacity for up to 20 kilograms of cargo, enough for groceries, work equipment, a helmet, or the assorted objects that tend to turn a simple errand into a logistical exercise. Unlike many compact scooters, where carrying capacity largely means whatever remains attached to the rider, Lightfoot positions storage low and centrally within the vehicle to support balance at slower speeds.
The scooter pairs its solar assistance with a lithium-ion battery delivering up to 37 miles (60 kilometers) of plug-in range according to the current product page. When a socket is required, the onboard charging system reaches 80 percent in approximately 90 minutes. Regenerative braking recovers some energy during deceleration, while a waterproof 2.8-inch touchscreen displays speed, battery level, lighting status, and other essential information — because even sunshine occasionally benefits from a dashboard.
built-in panels recharge the battery whenever the scooter sits in sunlight
Two brushless hub motors, one mounted in each wheel, provide 750 watts of nominal power apiece and bring Lightfoot to a top speed of 19.9 mph (32 km/h). A twist-and-go throttle eliminates pedals, gears, and clutch controls, while hydraulic disc brakes, regenerative braking, ten-inch wheels, and motorcycle-style front and rear suspension are intended to keep the 62-kilogram vehicle composed across city streets and bike lanes. It is less interested in folding neatly beneath a desk than in carrying another person and making a steep hill feel less personal.
Lightfoot’s modular construction uses serviceable components intended for maintenance at home or through local bicycle workshops. Lighting includes a 2,000-lumen front lamp, accelerometer-activated rear lights, and a 120-decibel horn, while electronically locking wheels add another obstacle for anyone considering an unauthorized test ride. Currently listed at $4,995, the solar cargo scooter is offered through the company’s website with purchase, reservation, and preorder options, framing micromobility not as the smallest possible vehicle, but as a practical substitute for the short car trips that quietly consume much of the day.
lockable central compartment carries groceries, work gear or daily essentials
elongated cushioned bench provides space for rider and passenger
dual hub motors power short trips through city streets and bike lanes
aircraft-grade aluminum chassis supports the scooter’s distinctive rectangular profile
solar array can add up to 18 miles of range under favorable conditions
project info:
name: Lightfoot
design: Otherlab | @lightfoot.now
location: California, USA
You must be logged in to post a comment.