Catalog / Microlino
Microlino, a Swiss electric vehicle manufacturer, has captured the imagination of urban dwellers and automotive enthusiasts alike with its innovative approach to personal transportation. Founded in 2015 by Wim Ouboter and his sons Oliver and Merlin, Microlino represents a bold reimagining of the iconic 'bubble car' concept for the 21st century.
The story of Microlino begins with inspiration from the past. The Ouboter family, known for inventing the micro scooter, was inspired by the BMW Isetta, a post-war microcar that became an icon of 1950s automotive design. They saw an opportunity to revive this compact car concept for modern urban environments, addressing issues of congestion, parking scarcity, and environmental concerns.
Microlino's journey from concept to production has been marked by several significant milestones:
The Microlino stands out in the electric vehicle market with its unique design and functionality. Key features include:
Microlino's approach to manufacturing also sets it apart. The company has focused on sustainable production methods, partnering with established automotive suppliers to ensure quality while maintaining a startup's agility and innovation.
The Microlino is classified as an L7e vehicle in Europe, placing it in the heavy quadricycle category. This classification allows for some regulatory advantages compared to full-sized cars, though it also comes with certain limitations on highway use.
As Microlino expands its production and enters new markets, it faces both opportunities and challenges. The growing demand for sustainable urban mobility solutions presents a significant opportunity, while competition from both established automakers and other EV startups poses challenges.
Looking to the future, Microlino has expressed plans to expand its product line, potentially including other innovative urban mobility solutions. The company's success could have broader implications for urban transportation, potentially influencing city planning and infrastructure development to better accommodate micro-mobility solutions.
Microlino represents more than just a vehicle; it embodies a vision for reimagining urban mobility. By blending retro charm with forward-thinking technology, Microlino has created a unique position in the automotive market, appealing to environmentally conscious urban dwellers and design enthusiasts alike. As cities worldwide grapple with issues of congestion and pollution, innovative solutions like Microlino may play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of urban transportation.
The cost of a Microlino electric car varies depending on the specific model and configuration chosen. As a relatively new entrant in the electric vehicle market, Microlino has positioned its vehicles as premium urban mobility solutions, reflecting their unique design and advanced technology.
The price range for Microlino vehicles typically falls between €12,500 and €20,000, depending on the version and optional features selected. Here's a general overview of Microlino's pricing structure:
Factors influencing the final price include:
It's worth noting that prices may vary slightly between different European countries due to differences in taxes, incentives, and local market conditions. Additionally, as Microlino expands its production and enters new markets, pricing strategies may evolve.
While the initial purchase price of a Microlino may be higher than some traditional small cars, potential buyers should consider the total cost of ownership, including:
As production scales up and technology advances, there's potential for Microlino prices to become more competitive in the future. However, the unique design and positioning of Microlino vehicles mean they're likely to maintain a premium over more conventional small electric cars.
The most affordable model in the Microlino range is the 'Urban' version, which serves as the entry point to Microlino ownership. The starting price for the Microlino Urban is approximately €12,500, making it the least expensive option in the lineup.
However, the final price can vary based on several factors:
While the Urban model is the most affordable, it's important to note that it still comes with the core Microlino features, including:
When considering the price of the cheapest Microlino model, potential buyers should also take into account:
It's worth noting that while €12,500 represents the starting price for a new Microlino, the actual out-the-door price might be higher depending on local taxes, registration fees, and any dealer-specific charges. Additionally, as Microlino is a relatively new company, availability and pricing can be subject to change as they scale up production and enter new markets.
Despite being the cheapest Microlino model, the Urban version still represents a premium product in the micro-mobility space, reflecting its unique design, electric drivetrain, and positioning as a lifestyle vehicle rather than just basic transportation.
The most expensive model in the Microlino range is typically the 'Competizione' version, especially when equipped with the largest battery option and premium features. The starting price for a top-spec Microlino Competizione is approximately €15,500, but with options and customizations, the final price can reach or even exceed €20,000.
The higher price of the Competizione model reflects its premium positioning and additional features. Factors that contribute to its higher cost include:
Additional options that can further increase the price of the top-end Microlino models include:
It's important to note that the Microlino, even in its most expensive configuration, is still priced lower than many conventional electric cars. This pricing reflects its positioning as a premium urban mobility solution rather than a traditional automobile replacement.
When considering the cost of the most expensive Microlino model, potential buyers should also factor in:
As Microlino continues to evolve its product line and expand into new markets, there's potential for even more premium or limited-edition versions to be introduced, which could push the upper price limit even higher. However, the company's focus remains on providing a unique, environmentally friendly urban transportation solution, balancing innovation with accessibility.
Despite the higher price tag compared to other Microlino models, the Competizione version in its fully-equipped form represents the pinnacle of the company's vision for stylish, sustainable urban mobility. Its cost reflects not just the vehicle itself, but the lifestyle and environmental statement it embodies.
