Spanish startup Liux is entering the competitive European microcar market with its new electric vehicle, the Liux Big, aiming to stand out through a strong focus on sustainability. Unlike many small electric vehicles that are produced in China, Liux manufactures its cars in Spain, operating the country's first new car plant in over three decades. Co-founder Antonio Espinosa de los Monteros acknowledges that complete European supply chain independence is unrealistic but emphasizes the company's commitment to sustainable materials and recycling principles as foundational to their product.

The Liux Big features a novel design, including a lightweight fiber body made from a linen-based biocomposite, enabling easier recycling and a smaller environmental footprint. The vehicle is engineered to be low maintenance and designed to last longer than typical modern cars, counteracting the rapid obsolescence trend in the automotive industry. The car’s batteries can be recharged using home solar power, further enhancing its eco-friendly profile. Co-founder David Sancho, who brings experience from high-performance electric and hybrid vehicle engineering, has prioritized vehicle safety and driving dynamics to ensure the Big handles like a conventional car rather than a lightweight quadricycle.

After initially developing a larger electric SUV prototype, Liux transitioned to the smaller Liux Big to increase production feasibility and regulatory compliance across Europe. The microcar has now secured homologation for the EU market and is set to begin sales in early 2027. The company’s lean manufacturing approach in its Azuqueca de Henares plant focuses on final assembly while targeting an annual production capacity of 20,000 vehicles by 2030. More than 7,500 potential buyers have already joined the waiting list, with typical customers expected to be urban dwellers aged 55 to 60 who may use it as a second household car.

Liux plans to price the Big below €18,000 before subsidies, positioning it competitively within the microcar segment while offering enhanced safety, performance, and sustainability features. In addition to the initial urban model with 15 kWh and 20 kWh battery options, the startup intends to introduce a cargo variant and potentially explore autonomous driving partnerships. With €16 million raised to date, including European funds, Liux is partnering with dealership networks across Europe and aims to carve out a unique market niche by blending eco-conscious innovation with European craftsmanship and design.