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Swiss firm Microlino will soon start selling its electric model in the UK, Autocar reports. The company is currently searching for a regional manager who will be responsible for setting up the sales infrastructure and marketing strategy.
Sales should begin by summer 2024. Microlino intends to launch a retail network by partnering with an existing dealer franchise.
The Microlino was first unveiled at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show and launched six years later. The vehicle is categorised as a heavy quadricycle (L7e). Even the official Microlino website is greeted with the headline "Microlino: this is not a car!".
The two-seat quadricycle with electric propulsion system is based on the legendary Isetta car, which was produced under different brands in Europe after World War II. In June 2023, the company launched the 1000th Microlino.
Microlino EV
The Microlino is powered by a 12.5 kW (17 hp) electric motor with 89 Nm of torque. It is capable of accelerating up to 90 km/h. Acceleration from 0 to 50 km/h takes 5 seconds. The lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 5.5, 10.5 or 15.0 kWh, giving a range of 93 kilometres (58 miles), 177 kilometres (110 miles) and 228 kilometres (142 miles) respectively.
Microlino plans to deliver up to 300 Microlino EVs to the UK this year. The company expects that the UK could eventually become one of the three largest markets for the quadricycle. The company will target private buyers and small businesses, positioning the Microlino as a second commuter car.
Like the similarly sized Citroen Ami, the Microlino EV will only be offered in the UK with left-hand drive due to the door design at the front of the body. At the same time, the company notes that with such compact dimensions, it is easy to reach the parking ticket window regardless of the side of the steering wheel.
In mainland Europe, Microlino pricing starts at €17,990 (£15,400) and rises to €19,990 (£17,100) for the 10.5kWh model or €21,990 (£18,800) with a 15kWh battery.
Source: Autocar
