As the first Pioneer Series electric bubble cars roll into the garages of early backers, Micro Mobility Systems AG has debuted two new variants at the Paris Motor Show. The Microlino Lite is aimed at fun-loving younger drivers, while the Spiaggina Concept is designed for holiday hotspots.
The first Isetta-inspired Microlino EV prototype was revealed at 2016's Geneva Motor Show, but hit a road block as production neared and underwent a retro-modern redesign in 2020. One became three with the launch of the series editions, and now production of 999 Pioneer Series vehicles is well underway, and some of the first customers to receive one have included the CEO of Gucci, Marco Bizzarri, and Zurich restaurateur Michel Péclard.
Like the Mobilize Duo (Twizy) 45, the Microlino Lite will drive out as a light quadricycle under the EU's L6e classification, which will limit the motor to 6 kW for a top speed of 45 km/h (28 mph) and mean that in certain jurisdictions drivers over the age of 14 won't need a license.
"With the Microlino Lite we wanted to provide even more people access to sustainable mobility solutions," said company co-founder, Oliver Ouboter. "There are more and more people without a driving license that still want to travel weather protected."
Described as a close-to-production study, the two-passenger vehicle has been penciled in for production next year at a cheaper price point to its more capable siblings. It retains many of the features of other Microlinos – such as the front-opening door, side mirror/headlight modules, small cargo trunk, and excellent maneuverability – but comes with a glossy black trim instead of the full-width LED infinity lighting, sports a black front bumper and wears a new color scheme.
The Spiaggina Concept jumps right back up to L7e classification, and appears to be a design overhaul inspired by small cars from the 1960s, such as the Fiat 600 Jolly and the Citroën Mehari.
"The Microlino Spiaggina Concept was a fun idea we’ve toyed with already years ago that now finally became a reality," explained Outober. "It will be the most stylish vehicle for Europe’s summer destinations like Portofino, St.Tropez or Ibiza."
The interior has been treated to a playful blue/white color scheme, with wave stitching on the seating, fully waterproof materials, and wood flooring in the cabin and trunk. It features a striped canvas roof and lacks windows to the sides and rear to allow occupants the benefit of a gentle breeze while driving along on a hot sunny day.
Micro Mobility Systems AG anticipates that limited production will start in time for next year's Northern Hemisphere summer, and the company confirmed to us that this edition will sport a 12.5-kW (19-kW peak) motor for 89 Nm (65.6 lb.ft) of torque and a top speed of 90 km/h (56 mph). The company's Oliver Ouboter revealed that the Spiaggina will likely be offered in two battery configurations: a 10.5-kWh pack for up to 177 km (110 miles) or a 14-kWh flavor for up to 230 km (143 miles).
The company's booth at this week's Paris Motor Show will also host the French debut of the three-wheeled Microletta e-moped first shown in 2020, though production might be some time off as all focus is currently on getting Microlinos to eager reservation holders. Deliveries of Microlino electric bubble cars in EU countries are expected to start in 2023.
Source: Microlino
