Best Electric Vehicles 2026: Seven EV Innovations From the Micromobility Showcase

Introduction

The micromobility space is moving fast. At a recent industry showcase, several electric vehicles stood out for their distinct approaches to urban transport. From street-legal e-bikes and retro mopeds to cargo trikes and conversion kits, the range of options is broader than ever. This guide breaks down seven of the most interesting EVs from the event, highlighting what each one does well and where it might fall short.

Rivian Outset: A Scrambler-Style Street-Legal E-Bike

Rivian’s Outset builds on the foundation of the Anthem, a street-legal e-bike that impressed earlier in the year. The Outset shares about 80% of its DNA with the Anthem, but the key changes are aimed at a more adventurous riding position. It features longer travel suspension front and rear, slightly different tires, wider handlebars, and a more upright riding posture. The foot pegs have also been moved forward, giving it a scrambler or adventure bike feel.

Performance figures remain similar to the Anthem. Expect around 75 miles of city range and a top speed of 75 to 80 mph. The customized version shown at the event is priced at $5,995 with a controller, while the stock Outset comes in at $5,995. For riders who liked the Anthem but want something with a bit more comfort and off-road capability, the Outset is a compelling option.

Shandoka Electric Motorcycle Conversion Kit: Turn a Gas Bike Into an EV

Shandoka takes a different approach to electrification. Instead of selling a complete motorcycle, the company offers a structural adapter kit that replaces the engine of an existing motorcycle, making it easy to convert a gas-powered bike into an electric one. The adapter is designed to work with the 30 to 40% of motorcycles that have a structural engine, meaning the engine itself is a load-bearing part of the frame.

The adapter houses the battery and control systems. The center compartment can hold up to a 12 kWh battery, which provides about 90 miles of hard country road riding, around 150 miles in the city, or roughly 45 miles at highway speeds of 85 to 90 mph. Shandoka offers several pathways to ownership: factory-complete bikes, build-your-own sessions at their facility, or a network of custom builders and independent shops.

Pricing starts at around $13,000 for a completed Ninja with a 12 kW motor and an 8 kWh battery pack. The bike shown at the event, with a 15 kW continuous motor and a 12 kWh battery, starts around $20,000, and with custom paint and bodywork, it can reach the $25,000 territory. Shandoka also offers conversions for the Kawasaki Ninja 250, with pricing as low as $1,000 for the adapter kit. The converted bikes are fully street legal in every jurisdiction.

Beachman 64: A Retro Moped With Modern Electric Power

The Beachman 64 is a handbuilt electric bike designed to revive the golden age of 1960s and 1970s mopeds and cafe racers. It’s based on the old Honda CB125 platform, with an electric drivetrain designed around that classic frame. The result is a bike that feels familiar to anyone who has ridden a motorcycle from that era, but with the quiet, smooth power delivery of an EV.

The bike runs on a 72-volt, 40 amp-hour battery, which is removable for convenient charging. That’s roughly 3.2 kWh of capacity, providing 60 to 70 miles of range. Top speed depends on the mode you select. In the default e-bike setup, it’s a Class 2 bike with a 20 mph top speed. A moped setup raises that to 30 mph, and an off-road setting for private use goes up to 45 mph.

The Beachman 64 weighs in at around 220 lbs, which is on the heavier side, but it comes with legitimate motorcycle brakes and a solid, stable feel. It’s currently street legal as a moped, with a light motorcycle classification expected in the coming months. The price is $4,800, which is reasonable for a handbuilt bike with this level of style and character.

Fly Ebike DP3: A Capable Pre-Production Machine

Fly Ebike’s DP3 is a pre-production sample that shows a lot of promise. It’s powered by a 72-volt, 40 amp-hour battery, and you can fit two batteries in the motorcycle for a top range of 160 miles. Top speed is 60 mph. The bike also features front and back cameras, which is an interesting addition for a vehicle in this class.

The DP3 is expected to be available for sale early next year, with a price around $5,000. It’s a capable-looking bike for the money, though it could use a bit more power off the line. The acceleration felt a little underwhelming in the test ride, but it’s worth noting that the bike was in pre-production and may have had additional performance modes available through the companion app.

O Cycles Cargo Trike: A Practical Hauler for People and Pets

The O Cycles Cargo Trike is a different kind of EV. It’s a 750-watt motor that’s tuned to deliver 1,000 watts of torque, with a substantial 130 Nm of torque on tap. That makes it a capable hauler for grocery runs, pet transport, or even carrying kids or a friend.

The rear cargo area is versatile. There’s a tailgate that opens and closes so a pet can jump right in, and the space can be converted to seat passengers with retractable seat belts. There’s even a USB charger for those who want to sit back with a coffee and a laptop. The trike comes in two versions: a single battery with a 20 amp-hour capacity for $3,750, and a dual battery with a 50 amp-hour capacity for $4,200. An optional reverse mode is available for an additional $150.

This isn’t going to be as fast or as street-oriented as the other bikes on this list, but it fills a specific niche for families and pet owners who want a practical, fun way to get around town.

VMAX VX2 Extreme and VX4: Commuter Scooters With Power

VMAX is a brand that’s been around since 2015 and recently expanded to the US. The VX2 Extreme is one of their bestselling scooters, designed for power and torque. It comes with turn signals and a “beast mode” for extra power, making it a solid choice for fast commuting.

The VX4 is the model with the biggest range, offering 62 miles on a single charge. It also features a suspension system, which makes it more comfortable on bumpy roads and better suited for heavier riders or those living in hilly areas. Both scooters have a top speed of 25 mph. The VX2 Extreme is priced at $899, while the VX4 is $779.99.

Overall Buying Advice

The electric vehicle market is expanding rapidly, and the options at this showcase reflect that diversity. If you’re looking for a street-legal e-bike with a more adventurous stance, the Rivian Outset is a strong choice. For those who want to electrify an existing motorcycle, the Shandoka conversion kit offers a flexible path. The Beachman 64 is perfect for riders who value style and a classic feel, while the Fly Ebike DP3 is a budget-friendly option with impressive range potential.

The O Cycles Cargo Trike is ideal for families and pet owners, and the VMAX scooters are practical, powerful options for daily commuters. Consider your primary use case, your budget, and whether you need street legality or off-road capability before making a decision.

Conclusion

The seven EVs featured here represent the breadth of innovation happening in micromobility. Whether you prioritize performance, style, practicality, or affordability, there’s likely an option that fits your needs. As the industry continues to evolve, expect even more capable and accessible electric vehicles to hit the market in the coming years.