Dublin start-up prepares first hardware launch as investors back technology aimed at easing road-safety fears
Luna Systems has raised €1.5m to launch its first AI‑powered camera systems for cyclists and motorcyclists, as the Dublin company moves beyond software and into full hardware production.
The late seed round was led by Fundracer Capital, a Netherlands-based venture fund focused on cycling technology, alongside EIT Urban Mobility. Enterprise Ireland also participated, adding further public backing to Luna’s ambition to scale internationally.
“Six in ten people are still too afraid to cycle in their area. Fear of mixing with traffic is a crucial barrier, especially in busy cities”
Luna has until now concentrated on Vision AI safety software for the two-wheeler market. The new funding will support the commercialisation of its Advanced Rider Assistance Systems, which are designed to mirror for bikes the collision-warning and blind-spot detection technologies already common in modern cars.
Safer roads
AI device for cyclists issues a warning of a vehicle emerging from behind.
The company plans two launches this year: a dual AI camera system for bicycle and motorcycle manufacturers and its first consumer-facing device, a rear-facing camera linked to a smartphone app.
The consumer unit will alert cyclists to approaching vehicles and record ride data for analysis of incident hotspots. Luna hopes the product will appeal particularly to commuter cyclists, a segment where concerns about traffic remain a major deterrent.
Andrew Fleury, chief executive of Luna Systems, said the company’s goal was to help more people feel comfortable cycling in traffic.
“ADAS technology for cars advances daily. We believe that, just like cars, ARAS will become commonplace on bikes and motorbikes. Six in ten people are still too afraid to cycle in their area. Fear of mixing with traffic is a crucial barrier, especially in busy cities,” he said. “People may wait years for perfect cycling infrastructure. Meanwhile, technology is already here that can help everyone feel safer moving through their city.”
Fleury said the investment would speed up Luna’s hardware development. He described Fundracer’s involvement as significant for the company, given the team’s long experience in cycling technology. Fundracer was founded by René Wiertz of 3T Cycling, Cervélo co-founder Gerard Vroomen, and Zipp Wheels founder Andy Ording. Its investments include Specter, Blubrake and Litelok.
Wiertz said Luna’s approach aligned with Fundracer’s belief that innovation must support all cyclists, not only experienced riders. “To date, high-level innovation has focused on the needs of professional and experienced cyclists, but for the industry to grow, everyone needs to feel safe navigating busy urban environments,” he said.
“After our market consultation we were impressed by Luna’s ambition and technological competence. Advancements in AI make vision a strong choice from our perspective. Vision AI does more than detect. It captures data that can identify risk blackspots created by unsuitable infrastructure and help cyclists map safer routes.”
EIT Urban Mobility, which has backed Luna in earlier rounds, said the company fitted its mission of improving safety across European cities. Peter Vest, investment and portfolio manager, said he was pleased to see Fundracer join the investor group. “With both investors actively engaged in advancing mobility innovation, I am confident we can help Luna scale across Europe and beyond,” he said.
Enterprise Ireland’s participation reflects national support for deep-tech companies targeting global markets. Donnchadh Cullinan, head of enterprise solutions at the agency, said Luna’s system addressed a clear safety gap. “Luna Systems’ highly innovative and disruptive Advanced Rider Assistance Solution provides cyclists and motorcyclists with technology to feel safe while navigating busy and congested roads. Today’s announcement will help Luna grow and compete internationally,” he said.
Luna’s move into hardware marks a strategic expansion of its commercial offering as demand increases for new safety solutions in congested urban environments. The company expects its consumer device to be sold directly and through selected European distributors later this year.
Top image: Andrew Fleury and Maria Diviney of Luna Systems
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