Meet the Microlino

[voyager]

A modern day Isetta with an all-electric powertrain is in the works. Swiss company Micro Mobility has unveiled the first pre-series Microlino on January 24, and the car you see in the photos "is very close to series production."

Meet Microlino, the modern day Isetta with electric propulsion

 

[RichardL]

I still remember a ride in an original Isetta, many years ago, as one of the scariest automotive experiences of my life (and I used to pro-rally!)

(Along with driving a Moskvich)

 

[BluestarE3]

Hmm, how can this pass any crash-worthiness regulations... unless it's targeted for locales that don't have any such regulations?

 

[gjunky]

Very short crumble zones. Looks very cool though.

 

[voyager]

Hmm, how can this pass any crash-worthiness regulations... unless it's targeted for locales that don't have any such regulations?

It's not considered a car,,,, but a vehicle for running in and around town. It is not allowed on the freeway.

 

[BluestarE3]

It's not considered a car,,,, but a vehicle for running in and around town. It is not allowed on the freeway.

So, basically an NEV?

 

[voyager]

So, basically an NEV?

Not (your) Everyday Vehicle... right.

 

[Olds442]

about the same size, no?

 

[Uncle Paul]

I drove an Isetta for years. Had a thundering 13 hp. with essentially 1/2 a 600cc BMW engine.

Was pretty reliable, and a super fun car for driving around town, but no way I would take it on the Highway let alone the Freeway.

Think this would be a fantastic Neighborhood Venice. Replace the clumsy golf carts so many people use to run around in.

Loved the refrigerator door. Easy to get in as the steering wheel folded out with the door when opening. Fit two adults and one kid fine. Had to gear down for even slight hills, but first gear would climb anything...slowly.

 

[voyager]

Could be smaller still. Here is the Swedish mono-seater Uniti, also recently introduced.

 

[Olds442]

best looking weirdmobile ever.

 

[voyager]

Larger, but still under 4 meters, therefore NCAP worthy, and a three-seater is this one.
What's interesting is the triangle platform with two clustered rear-wheels (instead of one fat tire).
And a rear-bumper that's attached to a bar that runs in between the rear-wheels.