Despite cars becoming smaller in Europe, we still have a problem with congestion in our urban areas. Narrow streets and high petrol prices have meant Europe has embraced smaller cars, but in the US it is different.
Americans enjoy much lower petrol pump prices, and have much more space to drive on. That said, congestion in big US cities is a real problem, making smaller cars the logical next step. Additionally, petrol prices may not always be so low, so cars with smaller more economical engines may eventually be in demand.
Introducing the C-1
Lit Motors of San Francisco is hoping that its two-person vehicle – the C-1 – will provide an effective, low-cost way to beat the rush hour traffic. While the firm is keen not to market it as such, the C-1 is in fact a motorbike, and will enjoy the same lane splitting and parking privileges as its two-wheeled brother.
And with a top speed of 100mph, this isn’t a slow bike either. It will also be able to travel up to 200 miles on a single charge, making it a very economical option indeed.
The C-1 also has the ability to stay upright all by itself. Gyroscopes are built into the body to ensure the driver does not have to worry about maintaining balance.
Unlike other small vehicles such as the Smart car, the C-1 is narrow, while the Smart is short. The final version will be able to seat up to two people, one in front of the other, and will address the fact that most rush hour vehicles contain only one person; which ensures the roads are filled up with unused car space.
From a vehicle recovery firm’s viewpoint, the biggest question related to the C-1 will be: when we give drivers a breakdown cover quote, will it be classed as a car or a motorbike?
Breakdown Cover from 
