Apple and Audi Alumni Have Made a Luxe EV Based on the Moon Buggy

The Amble One, an electric vehicle inspired by the NASA moon buggy and priced at $25,000, is redefining the concept of lightweight, short-range mobility for luxury resorts and urban environments alike. This innovative EV blends space-age design with modern luxury, offering a unique alternative to traditional cars for both private and commercial use.

A Design Philosophy Borrowed from Space and Silicon Valley

The Amble One’s design is a fusion of aerospace engineering and modern minimalism, with a clear nod to the NASA Lunar Roving Vehicle. Julian Hoenig, Amble’s design lead, drew inspiration from the moon buggy’s simplicity and open framework, creating a vehicle that exposes its electric skateboard platform rather than hiding it beneath traditional bodywork. This design not only echoes the aesthetic of a spacecraft but also reinforces the vehicle’s lightweight nature, which is critical for its classification as an L7e vehicle in Europe. The use of materials such as aluminum, leather, and cork further underscores Amble’s premium positioning, while orange screws and motorcycle-style handlebars highlight the vehicle’s configurability and user-centric design.

A Founding Team with Automotive and Tech Credibility

Amble’s founding team brings together a blend of automotive and tech expertise. Adrien Roose, CEO and co-founder, previously cofounded Cowboy, a well-known premium electric bike brand. Hoenig’s experience at Audi and Apple includes working on high-profile projects such as the Apple Watch, Vision Pro, and Project Titan, the now-canceled Apple car initiative. The team’s background in both the automotive and tech industries has allowed Amble to create a vehicle that balances luxury, functionality, and affordability. This cross-disciplinary influence is evident in the Amble One’s modular components, such as foldable rear seats and a removable front basket, which cater to both resort and urban use cases.

Key specifications of the Amble One include:

  • A weight under 450 kilograms to meet European L7e classification standards.
  • A range of over 60 miles on a single charge.
  • A top speed of 40 mph.

A 2029 model, the Amble Two, is in development with features such as removable doors and a hardtop. The Amble One is being preordered by luxury resorts and private properties across Europe and the US.

A Shift in Micromobility and Urban Transportation

Amble’s approach to micromobility differs significantly from its competitors. Rather than targeting the urban market first, the company is building its brand as a premium option, positioning itself for luxury resorts and private estates before expanding into cities. This strategy has already yielded early success, with notable clients such as Amangiri, Six Senses Les Bordes, and Na Praia placing orders. The vehicle is set to begin deliveries to hospitality clients in mid-2027, with consumer preorders open for 2028. This timing positions Amble to capitalize on the growing demand for second cars—vehicles that are affordable, fun, and suited for short-range travel.

The Future of Micromobility May Be Luxurious and Lunar

With its unique blend of design, performance, and strategic positioning, the Amble One could be the catalyst for a broader shift in how people view micromobility. While traditional players like the Citroën Ami have attempted to enter the market, they often lack the premium appeal and versatility that Amble offers. The company’s vision is clear: to create a vehicle that is not only functional but also aesthetic, configurable, and sustainable. If Amble can successfully balance these elements, it may be the first to truly bridge the gap between luxury and accessibility in the micromobility space.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the Amble One represents a bold new direction. By merging space-age inspiration with luxury design, and leveraging the expertise of Apple and Audi alumni, Amble is poised to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market. The coming years will determine whether this lunar-inspired buggy becomes the new standard for second cars—or if it remains a niche curiosity.