First Ride: Lightfoot, the Solar-Powered Scooter That Recharges Itself

The Lightfoot turns heads wherever it goes—ostensibly for its quirky, whimsical design that its maker openly embraces as a “smile machine.” During my time with the vehicle, it attracted more attention than any other ride I’ve taken, with bystanders commenting at intersections and cyclists pulling out phones to photograph it mid-commute.

Developed by Otherlab, a research and design firm founded by inventor Saul Griffith—who also co-founded Rewiring America, a nonprofit focused on transitioning US households away from fossil fuels—the Lightfoot emerged from data showing that 52 percent of all American passenger trips are under three miles. Griffith wondered why drivers couldn’t use a simpler, self-recharging vehicle for these short journeys instead of relying on cars.

“Solar energy can make a meaningful contribution,” Griffith explains. “There’s a clear path here for an accessible vehicle that people genuinely engage with—something simple and robust.”

By positioning it as a scooter rather than a bicycle, the Lightfoot broadens its appeal. “For every person who wants pedals, there are nine who don’t care about them,” Griffith notes.

I’ve spent just over two weeks with the Lightfoot, though much of that time was marked by heavy rainfall and a nor’easter in New York City—far from ideal for a solar-powered scooter. As a result, Otherlab is initially launching the $4,495 vehicle in California, where it is now available in sky blue or solar orange, with reservations open for a $100 deposit.

Griffith says the company eventually plans to expand into southern states, prioritizing Florida before assessing demand in northern regions. It is also in discussions with resorts, campuses, and fleet managers, with international sales planned for markets like Vietnam, where Hanoi will impose heavy restrictions on gas-powered scooters beginning in 2027. For now, however, the priority is producing enough units to reach early customers.

“If you look at the bloodbath of micromobility startups, nearly all raised too much capital and tried to scale immediately,” Griffith says. “We simply didn’t want to do that.” He adds that the initial production runs will validate consumer interest and give the company time to study real-world usage patterns.

Servicing is part of the plan, with Griffith noting that the company intends to build infrastructure as it grows. He emphasizes that the Lightfoot relies on common off-the-shelf components, making repairs straightforward for independent bike shops once the solar panels are removed.

The Lightfoot’s suitability for New York City is questionable at best. During extended cloudy periods, the only alternative charging method is a direct outlet connection—the battery is not removable. Weighing 137 pounds, the vehicle is designed for outdoor parking, requiring a power source accessible from a sidewalk or patio. Fortunately, I had a secure backyard outlet, allowing me to charge it despite the poor weather.

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