The Microlino electrical automobile showcased at the IAA Mobility 2023 event in Munich, Germany, has captured the attention of attendees with its unique design and eco-friendly features.
Arjun Kharpal | CNBC
MUNICH — The resurgence of compact electric vehicles is becoming increasingly evident in the automotive industry.
At the IAA electric motor show in Munich, numerous small automobiles were prominently displayed, echoing the nostalgic designs of the past, reminiscent of the iconic microcars or “bubble cars” from decades ago, such as the Italian-made Isetta, which first hit the roads in the mid-1950s.
While brands like Smart and the Fiat 500 have offered some of the more compact models available today, the rising demand for small electric vehicles appears to be gaining momentum as urban areas increasingly seek cleaner transportation solutions.
One standout at the IAA was the Swiss company Micro’s Microlino, a cutting-edge, battery-powered vehicle designed for urban mobility.
Micro claims that the Microlino can be fully charged using a standard home outlet in just four hours, offering a range of 230 kilometers (approximately 143 miles) and reaching a maximum speed of 90 kilometers per hour, making it an efficient option for city driving.
In Europe, the Microlino is categorized as a “heavy quadricycle,” which places it in a regulatory gray area that allows for easier market entry compared to traditional cars, thus expediting its availability to consumers.
Another innovative vehicle showcased at the IAA was the Yoyo, produced by the Italian-Chinese startup XEV. This model offers a driving range of 150 kilometers, appealing to those seeking environmentally friendly urban transport.
The Yoyo, also presented at the IAA Mobility 2023 event in Munich, Germany, showcases the future of compact electric vehicles.
Arjun Kharpal | CNBC
These micro vehicles are strategically aimed at the European market, as explained by Peter Richardson, research director of technology strategies at Counterpoint Research. This focus is due to the narrow and often congested roads prevalent in many European cities, making compact cars a practical solution. Furthermore, such vehicles might also find favor in densely populated urban landscapes in countries like India and Thailand.
These small electric vehicles can serve multiple purposes, including acting as a second car for families or serving as primary transportation for short city commutes where long-distance travel is unnecessary.
Nonetheless, questions linger regarding the overall appeal of these tiny automobiles among consumers.
The starting price for the basic model of the Microlino is set at 17,990 euros ($19,316). Additionally, it is unlikely to qualify for government subsidies available for electric vehicles in many major markets since it is not classified as a conventional car.
This pricing could deter potential buyers, especially those who could purchase a fully-fledged electric vehicle for a similar or even lower price, taking advantage of financing options and available EV incentives.
Richardson pointed out, “These microcars don’t attract those subsidies … so you can get a smart car that is actually a full EV and it’ll be cheaper than the Microlino,” highlighting the competitive landscape of the electric vehicle market.
