Adapted from proven auto technology, the POVEC C1 is a first-to-market product with solid-state electrochromic lenses
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. – June 24, 2026 – POVEC, a pioneer in advanced sports optics, today announces its launch into the performance eyewear market with the introduction of its first model, the C1. Designed specifically for athletes, outdoor professionals, and explorers who rely on clear vision when light conditions shift rapidly, the POVEC C1 introduces revolutionary solid-state electrochromic lenses that shift between Category 2 and Category 3 lenses in under a second with the touch swipe of a finger.
POVEC optics are powered by the advanced technology of Ambilight, an innovator in the automotive sector that developed solid-state electrochromic programs for Audi and BYD. The technology has been thoroughly tested in the harshest environments and engineered to withstand extreme heat, intense UV rays, constant vibration, and long-term climate exposure. To successfully adapt this automotive technology to sport optics, the POVEC C1 underwent a three-year research and development phase. Through multiple product iterations and exhaustive field testing, the engineering team successfully integrated the electrochromic technology into a lightweight form factor tailored specifically to the demands of outdoor enthusiasts and endurance athletes.
With the C1, POVEC introduces solid-state electrochromic lens technology that eliminates the 20-to-60-second delay of traditional photochromic lenses or the vision distortion of fragile liquid-crystal lenses. Engineered specifically for cyclists, trail runners, and outdoor adventurers, the C1 delivers instant, on-demand tint control in one second via a simple swipe on the earpiece. The C1 optics charge with a simple USB-C connect on the earpiece and offer battery life of up to 28 days (based on 4 hours/day of use).
“With the C1, we aren’t just launching new sunglasses, we are introducing a new way of managing light,” said James Zhang, PhD in Optical Science and R&D Director at POVEC. “The C1 is our opening statement in performance eyewear and proves that the technology is effective and ideal for performance optics and athletes. Our ultimate vision for POVEC is to bring electrochromic optics to a wide variety of sport and consumer uses.”
One Pair. Two Tint Levels.
- Dark Mode
- For bright sunlight and high-glare conditions.
- Category: CAT 3
- Clear Mode
- For lower-light and overcast outdoor conditions.
- Category: CAT2
The POVEC C1 Sunglasses feature:
- 1-Second Tint Control: Instant adjustments in approximately one second, bypassing UV exposure delays.
- Dual Manual Tint Modes: Seamlessly toggle between Clear Mode (Category CAT 2 for lower-light/overcast conditions) and Dark Mode (Category CAT 3 for high-glare/bright sunlight).
- Solid-State Optical Protection: A fully solid-state lens system tested to ANSI Z87.1 drop-ball and high-velocity impact standards for sport-ready protection.
- Ultralight TR90 Frame: A flexible, durable wraparound frame weighing approximately 36 grams, tailored for long rides and runners.
- Extended Outdoor Battery Life: Up to 28 days of battery life based on 4 hours of daily use, featuring modern USB-C charging and optional Bluetooth control.
- IP65 Weather Resistance: Built to completely resist rain, dust, sweat, and changing outdoor conditions.
The POVEC C1 is available now at povecoptics.com. To learn more about the technology or the brand story, visit https://povecoptics.com/pages/povec-optics.
ABOUT POVEC
Founded by a specialized team of materials scientists, advanced optics engineers, and outdoor enthusiasts, POVEC creates next-generation performance eyewear built to see beyond limits. By leveraging third-generation solid-state electrochromic technology originally developed for the automotive glass industry, POVEC delivers instant, on-demand lens tint control in approximately one second. Engineered to withstand the rigors of road cycling, mountain biking, and alpine exploring, POVEC eliminates visual fatigue and forced hesitation, allowing athletes to move safely and confidently through rapidly shifting environments. For more information, visit https://povecoptics.com/pages/our-story