Recently, Swiss company Micro unveiled the production version of the Microlino Lite at the Geneva Motor Show. This compact urban electric car is designed to target urbanites who prefer the convenience of a car but are looking for something more suitable for driving in dense cities with narrow streets. The Microlino Lite offers a top speed of 45km/h (28mph) and can be driven by anyone with a moped license from the age of 14 in some European countries.
The Microlino Lite shares the same steel unibody design as its bigger brother, the Microlino. It measures 2.5m long, 1.47m wide, and 1.5m high, with a curb weight of under 600kg. The vehicle is classified as an L6e vehicle, allowing anyone with an AM-class moped license to drive it in Europe. The base model comes with a 5.5kWh battery that provides a range of about 100km, while an optional 11kWh battery can extend the range to up to 177km. Charging the 5.5kWh battery from 0 to 80 percent takes around two hours, while the 11kWh battery requires about four hours.
The Microlino Lite comes equipped with a sunroof and a spacious 230-liter trunk, making it practical for city commutes, grocery shopping, and other everyday tasks. The interior options include a base or upgraded premium version with features like vegan leather seats, velour seat bench, side pockets, Bluetooth speaker, and a smartphone holder. The compact size of the Microlino Lite allows for easy maneuverability in tight urban spaces, and its lightweight design contributes to lower energy consumption compared to standard electric vehicles.
Pricing for the Microlino Lite starts at CHF149 per month for a 48-month lease with a 5,000km/year limit. This makes it a more affordable option compared to leasing a similar electric microcar like the Biro. The Microlino Lite is built in Turin, Italy, and is available in blue or anthracite grey. Preorders for the vehicle have already begun, with deliveries expected to start in early summer. While the initial rollout is likely to be European-only, there are plans to introduce the Microlino Lite in the US by the end of 2024 as a Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV).
The Microlino Lite offers a practical and eco-friendly transportation solution for urban dwellers who are looking for a compact and energy-efficient vehicle. With its compact size, impressive range, and affordable pricing, the Microlino Lite is poised to make a significant impact in the urban mobility space. Its innovative design and urban-friendly features make it a compelling option for those seeking a convenient and sustainable mode of transportation in dense city environments.
Leave a Reply