The bubble car is back! Three-wheeled EV lands to offer cheap, fuss-free city motoring

Swiss company Micro, known for its popular two and three-wheeled scooters for both kids and adults, has announced a new addition to its Microlino EV range. The Microlino Lite, revealed at the Geneva Motor Show 2024, is a lower-powered model that can be legally driven by 14-year-olds in certain markets.

Inspired by the iconic Isetta Bubble Car from the 1950s, the Microlino Lite features a front-opening ‘fridge door’ and a three-wheel layout, but with a modern twist powered by batteries and electric motors. With a simplified design containing 50% fewer parts than a traditional car, the Microlino Lite weighs just 435kg, providing a user-friendly experience and minimal maintenance.

Unlike the standard Microlino, which has been available in some European markets for a while at a price of €21,990, the Microlino Lite falls under the light quadricycle (L6e) category in much of Europe. Restricted to 45km/h, it can be driven by 14-year-olds in France and Italy, and 15-year-olds in Sweden, Germany, Austria, and Spain. In the UK, the minimum age is 16, while in Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Denmark, drivers must be 18.

The Microlino Lite can travel up to 62 miles on a single charge and takes about two hours to charge from a domestic socket. An optional 11kWh battery extends the range to 112 miles but requires four hours to charge. With its lightweight frame, the Microlino Lite is perfect for urban driving and can accommodate two people comfortably with space for 230 liters of cargo.

Offered in two colors, the Microlino Lite will be available for lease with monthly payments starting at CHF149. Micro plans to launch the Microlino Lite in Switzerland, France, Italy, and other European markets, with potential expansion to North America by the end of 2024.

As the demand for micro mobility solutions continues to grow, electric microcars like the Microlino Lite offer a cost-effective and convenient option for city dwellers. With its compact size, eco-friendly operation, and ease of use, micro mobility vehicles are becoming increasingly popular as urban areas seek alternative transportation options to reduce congestion and emissions.



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