The Microlino 2.0 Is A Cute, Electric Bubble Car With Up To 124 Miles Of Range

Following a preview last month, Micro has unveiled the Microlino 2.0.

Billed as the “iPad of the mobility world,” the Microlino 2.0 is a cute bubble car that recalls the BMW Isetta. Despite its retro looks, the car is thoroughly modern.

As part of the redesign, the Microlino has been given a streamlined appearance as it now features flush-mounted lighting units, an LED light stripe and a hidden door handle. The company says these changes make the car look like a “smiley face” while driving at night.

Also Read: Microlino 2.0 Revealed With Sleeker And Even Cuter Design

The Microlino 2.0 is also taller than its predecessor and creates additional headroom in the cabin. Designers also installed taller side glass and thinner A-pillars to improve visibility.

The rear end has been completely redesigned as the new Microlino has a 50% wider rear track for the improved ride comfort and safety. To accommodate the change, designers created a new bumper which features an LED stripe that includes lights for the brakes and turn signals.

The changes continue in the cabin as the steering wheel is no longer mounted on the door. It now resides on a free-standing column and the company says it can be “folded forward” to improve entry and egress.

Elsewhere, there’s a new digital instrument cluster, LED ambient lighting and a redesigned bench seat which promises to be more comfortable and ergonomic. The model is also more spacious and features an aluminum bar on the dashboard that recalls Micro’s origins as a kickscooter company. The latter isn’t just for looks as smartphones and Bluetooth speakers can be ‘clipped’ onto it.

The company didn’t release detailed specifications, but said the “asynchronous motor of the previous generation was exchanged with a synchronous, permanent-magnet motor that provides about 15% more efficiency and significantly more power.” Thanks to the upgrade, the Microlino 2.0 will be able to hit a top speed of 56 mph (90 km/h).

The electric motor is powered by 8 kWh and 14.4 kWh batteries which provide ranges of 78 miles (125 km) and 124 miles (200 km), respectively. When they are depleted, the batteries can be recharged in approximately four hours with a normal household outlet.

Pricing starts at €12,000 ($13,371 / £10,431) and the company already has 17,000 reservations. Production is slated to begin in 2021 and the Microlino 2.0 will be built with the assistance of CECOMP.

The company has also partnered with Bosch for maintenance as they have over 70 service stations in Switzerland. Micro says they are planning to expand this partnership to other countries as well.

Microletta Concept

Besides introducing the new Microlino, Micro unveiled the Microletta concept. It’s a three wheeled electric motorcycle that is officially classified as a tricycle in Europe.

That’s an important distinction as it means the Microletta can hit 50 mph (80 km/h) and still be operated without a motorcycle license.  Instead, a traditional driver’s license is sufficient.

Designed to fill the gap between e-scooters and the Microlino, the Microletta has two batteries with a capacity of 4.2 kWh. Each allows the scooter to travel more than 62 miles (100 km) on a single charge. The batteries are removable and can be swapped as needed.

The Microletta is technically a concept, but the company intends to put the scooter into production. However, Micro is focused on building the Microlino first so there’s no word on when production could begin. Regardless, the company is accepting non-binding reservations and says the model will cost approximately €4,900 ($5,455 / £4,256).