While it’s not an official title, one of the front-runners for the world’s coolest electric microcar has got to be the Swiss-designed and Italian-manufactured Microlino. And thanks to a new version with first-ever air conditioning, it just got even cooler.
Micro Mobility Systems, the maker of the Microlino, has announced not one, but two new versions of its retro-futuristic EV, and both are aimed squarely at enhancing summertime city cruising.
One brings a much-needed dose of comfort with a full-blown air conditioning system, and the other ditches most of its windows for a breezy, open-air beach buggy vibe.
If you’re not already familiar with the Microlino, here’s the short version: it’s a tiny, electric urban vehicle inspired by classic bubble cars like the 1950s BMW Isetta.
It seats two, has a single front-hinged door, and is technically classified as a quadricycle in Europe. That means it’s not technically a car, at least not in the traditional sense. But with seats, seat belts, a steering wheel, and other car accoutrements, it sure does feel like one.
The Microlino is pint-sized yet still packs an impressive (for the city) top speed of 90 km/h (56 mph) and available battery options that offer between 91 km and 230 km (57 to 143 miles) of range.
It’s not going to replace your family SUV, but for zipping around cities with zero emissions and maximum charm, it’s hard to beat.
Now, Micro has launched two new versions just in time for summer. First up: the Microlino with air conditioning, a long-awaited comfort upgrade that finally gives drivers the ability to stay cool without rolling down windows and hoping for the best. Available as part of the new “COOL & Connect” package, the upgrade includes not just A/C but also a premium interior, smartphone holder, and Bluetooth speaker. It’s offered on both the mid- and long-range Microlino models and aims to make this ultra-compact EV just a bit more livable for daily use in warm climates.
Then there’s the Microlino Spiaggina, a limited-edition open-air version with no side or rear windows, a rollable canvas top, and heavy beach cruiser vibes. Inspired by sunny coastal classics like the Fiat 600 Jolly, it’s meant to channel full-on “Dolce Vita” energy. It comes in exclusive Portofino Blue and Sardinia Sage colors, with yacht-inspired vegan leather seats and a 10.5 kWh battery offering up to 177 km (110 miles) of range.
It may not be as practical for all-year use, depending on where you live. But as a summer statement vehicle, it’s hard to top. Though at a price of €24,990, you’d better really enjoy those short-lived summer vibes. At least for a slightly more modest €19,990, you can still get into the base model. Or if you don’t mind cutting the top speed in half to 45 km/h (28 mph), the L6e version is priced at €17,990.
While these new versions are available in Europe now through Micro’s online configurator, there’s still no word on a US release. That’s a shame, because the Microlino hits a sweet spot that’s largely ignored by American automakers: compact, electric, stylish, and just plain fun.
But since it’s technically a quadricycle, not a car, it’s not likely going to fit into any US-based motor vehicle classifications. The quadricycle classification helps simplify regulation in Europe, but similar LSV (low-speed vehicle) or NEV (neighborhood electric vehicle) categories that exist in the US have considerably lower speed limits of just 25 mph (40 km/h).
That likely explains why Micro hasn’t announced any US homologation plans, likely due to those market challenges. Americans haven’t fully embraced electric microcars yet, especially ones that top out under highway speeds. But that could change. As cities push for cleaner, quieter streets and more people downsize from car ownership altogether, vehicles like the Microlino might one day find their moment here. And now that it has air conditioning? It’s starting to look a lot more comfortable, too.
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