In an age where cities are growing crowded and the need for sustainable transportation is more urgent than ever, the Microlino car has emerged as a revolutionary solution. This compact electric vehicle redefines how we move through urban spaces—combining retro-inspired design, eco-friendly performance, and modern technology. Designed and manufactured by the Swiss company Micro Mobility Systems, the Microlino represents a fresh approach to mobility, one that bridges the gap between a scooter and a traditional car.
What is the Microlino?
The Microlino is a two-seater electric microcar inspired by the 1950s BMW Isetta. It was created to provide efficient, sustainable, and convenient transportation for city dwellers who don’t need the bulk or emissions of a standard car. Despite its small size, the Microlino offers comfort, safety, and practical performance that make it suitable for daily commuting, grocery runs, and short urban trips.
With its bubble-like shape and front-opening door, the Microlino stands out on the road. It combines nostalgic charm with cutting-edge electric mobility technology, making it both fun to drive and environmentally friendly.
Design and Inspiration
The Microlino’s design pays tribute to classic microcars of the post-war era, particularly the Isetta, which became famous for its simplicity and charm. However, unlike the Isetta, the Microlino is built with a modern aluminum and steel chassis, LED lighting, and contemporary safety features.
One of the most distinctive elements of the Microlino is its single front door that swings open forward—allowing the driver and passenger to step directly onto the sidewalk when parking head-on. This unique design is not just a nostalgic nod; it also saves space in tight parking areas, making it perfect for crowded European and Asian cities.
Performance and Specifications
Although the Microlino is small in size, it’s surprisingly capable. It is classified as a light electric vehicle (L7e category) in Europe, offering impressive performance for city driving.
Here are some key specifications:
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Top Speed: Around 90 km/h (56 mph)
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Acceleration: 0–50 km/h in about 5 seconds
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Range: 91 km, 177 km, or 230 km, depending on battery size
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Battery Options: 6 kWh, 10.5 kWh, and 14 kWh lithium-ion batteries
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Charging Time: About 4 hours on a standard household plug
The Microlino weighs only about 530 kilograms, which helps it achieve excellent efficiency. Its electric motor provides instant torque, making it agile in stop-and-go traffic. The top version of the car can cover up to 230 kilometers on a single charge—more than enough for several days of city driving.
Interior and Comfort
Despite its compact footprint, the Microlino’s cabin feels surprisingly spacious. It can comfortably seat two adults side by side and offers 230 liters of luggage space—enough for two large shopping bags or a couple of suitcases.
The interior is designed with simplicity and elegance in mind. A digital dashboard, touchscreen controls, and Bluetooth connectivity make it modern and functional. Some versions also include heated seats, customizable color trims, and panoramic roofs, enhancing comfort and personalization.
Unlike typical microcars, the Microlino feels like a stylish urban pod—quiet, cozy, and futuristic.
Eco-Friendly Innovation
The Microlino is more than just a cute small car—it’s a statement for sustainability. By switching from traditional fuel to electric power, it dramatically reduces carbon emissions, noise pollution, and energy consumption.
According to Micro Mobility Systems, the Microlino consumes about one-third the energy of a conventional electric car, thanks to its lightweight build and compact design. It’s engineered for short-distance driving, which aligns perfectly with the needs of most city dwellers—who typically travel less than 30 km per day.
In addition, the company uses sustainable materials and energy-efficient production methods, further minimizing environmental impact.
Safety Features
Although small, the Microlino prioritizes safety. It is equipped with a rigid unibody structure, similar to that of modern cars, which offers better protection than the tubular frames seen in many micro-vehicles. It also includes seat belts, crash zones, and LED headlights for improved visibility.
The lightweight yet strong frame ensures stability on city roads, and the vehicle’s low center of gravity contributes to better handling.
The Microlino Lifestyle
Owning a Microlino isn’t just about transportation—it’s about adopting a new urban lifestyle. This microcar reflects a shift in how people view personal mobility. Instead of prioritizing speed or size, it focuses on efficiency, sustainability, and practicality.
Drivers love the fact that it can be parked almost anywhere, charges easily at home, and costs very little to operate. Maintenance is minimal, and with fewer moving parts than gasoline cars, it offers long-term reliability.
Furthermore, Microlino’s design turns heads wherever it goes. Its retro-modern style and compact dimensions make it an instant conversation starter, attracting both car enthusiasts and environmentalists.
Variants and Pricing
The Microlino is available in different versions, including the Urban, Dolce, and Competizione editions. Each variant offers unique color combinations, interior trims, and battery options.
While prices vary depending on the market and configuration, the starting price in Europe is around €17,900. Given its affordability, zero emissions, and low operating costs, it presents a practical alternative to both scooters and traditional cars.
The Future of Microlino
As urban populations continue to grow, vehicles like the Microlino are becoming essential to solving city mobility challenges. With expanding infrastructure for electric charging and increasing awareness about climate change, microcars are poised to become the new norm for urban commuters.
Micro Mobility Systems also plans to expand production and introduce the Microlino Lite, a lower-speed version for younger drivers and short-distance commuters. This diversification shows the brand’s commitment to accessible and eco-friendly transport for all.
Conclusion
The Microlino car is more than just a vehicle—it’s a symbol of smart, sustainable, and stylish urban mobility. Compact yet capable, it offers the perfect balance between convenience, design, and environmental responsibility.
In a world where bigger is no longer better, the Microlino proves that small can be powerful. It challenges traditional automotive thinking and paves the way for a cleaner, quieter, and more efficient future.
For those who want to drive responsibly without sacrificing style, the Microlino is not just an option—it’s the future.