A new type of vehicle is set to bridge the gap between city and highway driving. The YKS1 One, developed by Dutch startup YKS1 BV, combines automotive comfort with motorcycle-like agility. The electric single-seater features a sleek, compact design and an innovative chassis capable of leaning into corners.
After seven years of intensive development, YKS1 BV has completed its prototype and is preparing to transition into mass production.
Blending Car Safety with Motorcycle Agility
The YKS1 One offers a maximum speed of approximately 81 mph (130 km/h) and a claimed driving range of around 217 miles (350 km) per charge. It is roughly 8.2 feet (2.5 meters) long, weighs approximately 1,323 lbs (600 kg), and slots into the ultra-compact electric vehicle segment.
Despite its compact dimensions, safety remains a priority. The vehicle incorporates a robust tube frame similar to sports car designs and includes airbags as standard equipment.
However, YKS1 BV faces a significant hurdle: securing an additional €1 million to start full-scale production.
Innovative Tilting Chassis Design
Perhaps the most intriguing feature is the YKS1 One’s ability to lean up to 20 degrees while cornering. This unique chassis design and narrow, motorcycle-style tires provide motorcycle-like maneuverability and enhanced stability during tight turns. This setup is intended to deliver agile handling on both congested city streets and open highways.
Although specific details about motor output and battery capacity remain undisclosed, the announced performance specifications indicate suitability for both daily commuting and occasional longer journeys. Additionally, the lightweight design promises efficient energy use, potentially increasing real-world driving range.
Interior Blends Luxury with Practicality
Inside, the YKS1 One offers a premium environment combining luxury features with ergonomic practicality. The bucket-style seat firmly supports drivers during sharp maneuvers, while a flat-bottom steering wheel incorporates integrated navigation displays. Additionally, a sizable digital dashboard and expansive glass roof provide a sense of spaciousness and openness that is rare in vehicles of this size.
Premium Pricing: Potential Challenge or Opportunity?
Positioned as a premium offering, the YKS1 One contrasts sharply with typical budget micro-electric vehicles priced at around $7,500. Although official pricing has not been released, its upscale materials and advanced technologies indicate a significantly higher cost.
If introduced to the market, the YKS1 One could appeal to urban dwellers who prioritize parking convenience and embrace electrification trends. Nevertheless, the vehicle faces significant practical limitations, including its single-passenger configuration, minimal cargo capacity, and anticipated high price point. These factors might lead potential buyers to question its real-world benefits beyond urban convenience.
Despite these hurdles, the technical innovation and engineering excellence demonstrated by the YKS1 One remain noteworthy.
