I love the BMW Isetta, so it’s nice to see a car inspired by it heading to the market. The Microlino micro car.
You can still find examples of the original Isetta on eBay and not long back, I featured another car inspired by it. That was the slightly longer Eagle EG6330K out of China, a car unlikely to make it to the Uk. The Microlino, on the other hand, probably will.
That’s because this micro runaround has just been approved for use on European streets (and roads) after passing its final safety tests. So now you can seriously consider if you want one.
For pure novelty and if you love the bubble car, this will definitely tick the boxes. The car is unashamedly inspired by the vintage Isetta, right down to the door on the front and the distinctive side headlights. There’s even a retro dashboard too. But that’s probably where retro ends, as this is a small car designed for the modern era and modern city driving.
It is just 8ft long and as such, can squeeze into the most difficult of parking spaces. But when you are on the open road, it can move a bit too, hitting around 56mph as a top speed and with a rechargeable battery that works with standard electricity outlets. As for distance, a charge can cover up to 125 miles, depending on the battery you opt for.
Space is obviously tight inside, with just two seats behind that front door, but there is a hatch at the back for storage or shopping.
Production starts in 2018 with an eye on sales from 2019, with plenty of colours to choose from. As for price, that hasn’t been confirmed as yet. Sign up with the maker and you should find out in due course.
Find out more at the Microlino website
Images courtesy of Microlino
