As a commitment to bolstering Michigan’s startup economy, MichAuto has created the MichAuto Innovator Exchange, an immediate access point for startup companies to connect with well-established firms and other consumers of innovation. Learn more about participating company, LIVAQ and its Founder and Chief Executive Officer, David Medina Álvarez, below.
Meet David Medina Álvarez, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of LIVAQ
David R. Medina Álvarez, 25, is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of LIVAQ, an electric off-road vehicle company based in Detroit. Originally from Mexico, Medina Álvarez moved to Detroit in 2018 with the ambition to create his own vehicle company.
After completing his studies in 2022, Medina Álvarez founded LIVAQ to address a gap he identified in the off-road market. By bootstrapping, he developed and unveiled the Alpha prototype
of the EQUAD in the same year, marking the beginning of LIVAQ’s journey.
In 2023, the Beta prototype of the EQUAD was showcased during a TEDxDetroit talk. This version featured significant improvements in both performance and production efficiency, thanks to the implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies. Within its first two years, LIVAQ developed three prototypes, including one of the fastest ATVs on the market with the longest range.
LIVAQ has also provided over 70 students with the opportunity to be part of creating the first electric off-road vehicle OEM founded in Michigan, and the first of its kind on the continent. With a focus on differentiation through innovation and experience, LIVAQ aims to create an elevated experience where technology and nature meet.
What Medina Álvarez Has to Say About His Company
How long have you been in business and how many employees do you currently have?
LIVAQ has been operational for one year and 10 months. Currently, our dedicated team consists of five members who specialize in various aspects of electric ATV development and operations.
Describe your ideal client and the problem you are trying to solve for them.
Our ideal clients include government agencies and businesses in the adventure and eco-tourism sectors. We focus on solving significant challenges they face, such as reducing CO2 emissions and operational costs, which are prevalent with traditional gas-powered ATVs.
Where do you see your company in the next five years?
In the next five years, LIVAQ aims to set the standard for electric off-road vehicles globally. We plan to lead the market in innovation and sustainability, making electric ATVs a preferred choice for both recreational and utility purposes.
Why did you choose to locate your firm in Michigan?
We chose Michigan for its rich automotive heritage and its vibrant ecosystem that supports innovation in vehicle manufacturing. The community here offers tremendous support for automotive advancements, which is vital for a startup like ours focusing on cutting-edge technology.
What is your firm’s greatest competitive advantage?
Our greatest competitive advantage lies in our strategic approach to production and design. By focusing on limited production, we ensure each unit is built to the highest standards. Our ATVs feature modularity and integrate advanced technologies, which allow for significant customizations and upgrades, setting us apart from conventional ATV manufacturers.