The microcar segment is on the rise lately, with plenty of new offerings coming not only from established automakers but from smaller companies as well. This is the case of Patak Motors from Slovakia, which recently introduced the Rodster, a heavy quadricycle with retro looks inspired by classic sportscars from the ’30s.
Unlike most heavy quadricycles in the L7e class, the Patak Rodster looks more like a hot rod rather than an urban dweller. Features like the single-volume bodywork, the protruding round LED headlights, and the short windshield, wouldn’t look out of place in a Morgan. The fully exposed 19-inch wire wheels come without fenders, while the grille looks quite unique. Personalization options include 5 exterior colors, combined with exterior accents in a chrome, gloss black, or matte silver finish.
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The Rodster has a two-seater cabin with an optional manually operated roof. According to the website, It comes standard with a touchscreen, although the press shots depict a flat wooden dashboard with a few analog gauges. The seats can be upholstered in eco-leather or leather, with an optional luggage carrier at the back increasing practicality. The list of optional features includes heating, cupholders, wireless charging, parking sensors, and a rear-view camera.
The Patak Rodster measures 3,360 mm (132.3 inches) long, 1,360 mm (53.5 inches) wide, and 1,395 mm (54.9 inches) tall. This makes it 272 mm (10.7 inches) shorter than a Fiat 500e, but a full 950 mm (37.4 inches) longer than a Citroen Ami. As for the weight, it tips the scales at 450 kg (992 pounds), which is a typical number for the segment.
The ICE-powered version is powered by a tiny one-cylinder petrol engine producing 20 hp (15 kW), which is the output limit for the L7e category. The 0-50 km/h (0-31 mph) sprint is completed in 9 seconds, while the top speed of 125 km/h (78 mph) is significantly higher compared to other heavy quadricycles.
If you want a zero-emission Patak Rodster you have two options. Both come fitted with a single electric motor producing the same 20 hp (15 kW) but have different battery packs. The base model has a 10 kWh battery and 100 km (62 miles) of range, while the other one upgrades to a 20 kWh battery offering 250 km (155 miles) of range. The EVs are quicker and faster compared to their gas-guzzling sibling, accelerating from 0-50 km/h (0-31 mph) in 7 seconds and reaching a top speed of 130 km/h (81 mph).
The most affordable Patak Rodster is the ICE-powered version starting from €16,900 ($17,774). The fully electric model is priced at €22,900 ($24,084) or €25,400 ($26,713) if you want the version with the bigger battery and longer range.
