CURIO Q1 Four-Wheel EV Debuts in Japan: No License Required, Sidewalk Mode, and a Full Charge for About $0.80

At the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, Japanese startup Curio Inc. introduced its new four-wheel electric vehicle, the CURIO Q1. The company says the compact machine isn’t just another micro EV—it’s designed to rethink how people handle very short trips in crowded cities.

Under Japanese regulations, the Q1 falls into a category known as a “specified small motorized vehicle.” In practical terms, that means drivers don’t need a license to operate it. The vehicle can even be switched into a special “walk mode,” allowing it to travel on sidewalks at about 3.7 mph.

The CURIO Q1 measures roughly 5.7 feet long and just under 2 feet wide. It’s powered by a 600-watt electric motor paired with a lead-acid battery. Charging is simple: the battery can be plugged into a standard 100-volt household outlet and reaches a full charge in about six hours.

Energy costs are extremely low. A full charge costs around 120 yen—roughly $0.80—and delivers up to about 31 miles of range. That makes the vehicle well suited for short daily trips of around 2 to 3 miles, whether for commuting, small deliveries, or sightseeing services.

Development of the Q1 received technical support from automotive parts supplier Toyoda Gosei. The controls are designed to feel familiar, using throttle and brake levers similar to those found in cars, making it easy for new users to learn. The four-wheel layout also adds stability, while a small cargo compartment provides practical storage.

Visually, the tiny vehicle has a playful look—something like the kind of quirky delivery cart you might see in a Studio Ghibli film.

Originally, the Q1 was created to help older drivers stay mobile after giving up their licenses. Since then, the concept has expanded to include uses at tourist destinations, resorts, golf courses, and for small-scale logistics.

The model displayed at the show is the fifth prototype, following multiple real-world trials in local communities. A production version is expected in the near future, though pricing has not yet been announced.