The Microlino is a small four-wheeled electric car which has just gained road certification in the European Union.
It’s only 2.4-metres long, weighs 450kg (without battery) and can reach 90km/h with the 15kW motor producing 110Nm and getting from zero to 50km/h in five seconds.
The lithium iron phosphate batteries come in two options – an 8kWh pack expected to provide up to 126km (recorded in testing) and a 14.4kWh pack doing 202km or more.
The two-seater Microlino can be recharged from a standard wall outlet in four hours, and in an hour with a Type 2 connector.
Makers Microlino Auto say they were inspired by 1950s bubble cars while incorporating new technology and design.
Pioneer Wim Ouboter invented the Micro Scooter and Kickboard and, with his two sons, had the idea to create a space-saving, eco-friendly vehicle for urban mobility.
The car’s whole front opens to allow easy footpath access as part of its design for urban living, parking and travel.
Microlino production is expected to start by the end of 2018 with first deliveries likely in early 2019.
More than 6300 reservations have already been received, the company says.
It’s priced around 12,000 Euros (A$18,890), “less than a car, but a bit more than a motorbike”, Microlino Auto says.
Why is there never any focus on the crash safety (or complete lack thereof) in these tiny electric vehicles that are presumably classed as L7e heavy quadrocycles to avoid the need for EU crash testing. I’d hate to be in one should it collide with a twin cab Toyota HiLux at moderate speed.