Microlino: A Tiny Car Creating a Big Stir
It's clear that the Microlino isn't a traditional car. It's a lightweight electric vehicle that expects a lot from its drivers, but also rewards them. For instance, the unique entry process with the forward-opening door is exciting and fun. The tiny car generates excitement and laughter everywhere.
You can turn heads with a Lamborghini or Rolls-Royce, but it comes with a hefty price tag. Plus, these cars can cause envy and are viewed as polluters. However, there are other options if you want to make a statement without breaking the bank. One such option is the Microlino, which can garner attention for a relatively low cost - at least during our two-week test drives around Cologne.
In spring 2023, we had a brief test drive of the Microlino in Mainz during a press event marking its launch in Germany. At that time, we found the tiny car to be noisy, underpowered, and lacking in certain details. However, we grew fond of these quirks after spending more time with the Microlino.
Although it can't compare to regular cars, this Isetta clone is still enjoyable. The concept of sacrifice is built into this little vehicle. It can't have features like airbags or ABS because it's classified as a lightweight L7e vehicle that's limited to a 450 kilogram unladen mass.
Entrance is a theatrical performance
The Microlino's unconventional aspects start with entering the car. The forward-opening door is a spectacle. First, you stand in the passenger compartment while facing the bench seat. Then, you turn around and sit on the long bench seat behind the steering wheel. Finally, you push the door towards you until it stops against the frame. An electronic closing aid finishes the job. People often stop to watch as you stand in the Microlino and wave to them like a king on a palace balcony.
The process of starting the Microlino also doesn't feel modern. You need to use a traditional ignition key to kickstart the electronic gadgets. The on-board computer takes a few seconds to boot up, sometimes requiring a warm-up period. When the Microlino is ready, you release the handbrake lever manually and switch to the D drive mode. And off you go.
Noisy and raw
Unlike other electric cars, the Microlino is anything but silent. It hisses, whistles, and roars. Playing music from the Bluetooth speaker doesn't help drown out the noise. If you want to make a call while driving, using a headset is a better option. The "cute marble" - and the Microlino is one of the few cars of today that deserves this endearing nickname - is all about raw authenticity. This is also evident in the driving experience, where the steering has no power assistance and the brakes have no ABS or brake booster.
Achieving getaway speed in the Microlino feels like piloting a go-kart, as the road can be read like a kart course. However, the modern Isetta also offers some suspension comfort, which helps cushion the harshness of the terrain. In tight turns, the 13-inch wheels can lose contact with the road surface. This can be entertaining if you take advantage of the unusual handling to speed around corners with gusto and a touch of daring.
Fast-paced rear-wheel drive
The Microlino's rear-wheel-drive system resembles that of the Renault Twizy. It provides optimal traction for the 12.5 kW/17 hp engine. Driving in the city is an exciting experience - you can keep up with traffic just fine. Long journeys are doable, as the top speed of 90 km/h can be maintained for extended periods on flat roads.
In some cases, you may even consider driving on the highway, but be cautious. The speedometer tends to drop below 80 km/h when climbing hills. Pressing the turbo button releases extra power for a short time, allowing you to pass trucks.
Definitely a city car
The Microlino is undoubtedly a city car. It's designed for the urban environment, and it thrives when navigating traffic and tight spaces. So, while it may not have all the bells and whistles of a luxury car, it's certainly has a unique charm that turns heads and puts a smile on the faces of passengers. And, most importantly, it's an enjoyable experience to drive.
The Microlino is a city car, evident from its limited range. With 10.5 kWh of electricity, we could only travel about 100 kilometers, mostly in cool to spring-like weather. The charging time for a full battery is up to four hours, which makes longer trips challenging. However, its 2.5-meter body is perfect for urban environments because finding parking is easy. The trunk size can fit a week's worth of groceries.
This micro-car shines brightest in city traffic, especially for its charismatic appeal. With its adorable design, the Microlino is a real charmer on the road, giving off a high flirt factor. Driving with the roof open, you can't help but attract smiles from pedestrians and cyclists on sunny days. This was evident when passing by a group of school kids, who all smiled as we allowed them to cross the street.
Uplifting Atmosphere
Undoubtedly, the positive energy-from the car's performance-inspired excitement in everyone around us, including the teachers accompanying us. This upbeat vibe sticks with the user. Every entrance or exit of the car provokes conversations about the car, which are always cheerful interactions.
Thus, the 23,000 euros price tag for our test model isn't so daunting if you're a social person. Elite Partner membership can also be eliminated.
Microlino "Pioneer Series" (10.5 kWh) - Technical Specifications
- Smallest electric car in the L7e class with one door
- Length: 2.52 meters, width: 1.47 meters, height: 1.50 meters, wheelbase: 1.57 meters, trunk capacity: 230 liters
- Drive: Permanent magnet synchronous machine on the rear axle; 12.5 kW/17 hp, maximum torque: 89 Nm
- 0-50 km/h: 4.9 sec, top speed: 90 km/h, standard consumption (WLTP) 7.0 kWh/100 kilometers, CO2 emissions: 0 g/km
- Price "Pioneer Series": from €19,900
- Price basic version "Edition Microlino": from €19,490
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The Microlino, despite being classified as a lightweight L7e vehicle, can still attract attention due to its electric power and unique features, making it a viable option for those who want to embrace electromobility without the high cost associated with luxury automobiles.
This is not your typical electric car like the Lamborghini or Rolls-Royce, which are often criticized for their environmental impact and high prices. Instead, the Microlino offers an accessible and exciting alternative, promoting the idea of electromobility in a more affordable and compact package.
Source: www.ntv.de
