The Microlino has been a recognizable name in the world of electric microcars since its unveiling nearly eight years ago. Originally designed as a city-friendly EV, it quickly garnered attention for its compact size and playful design. Now, the Swiss company behind it has introduced a new iteration: the Microlino Spiaggina, a model that promises to blend retro vibes with modern technology for an ideal summer getaway vehicle.
Not your average car: What the Microlino is
First things first—the Microlino is not a conventional car. Instead, it falls into the European L7e category of quadricycles, a classification that allows the vehicle to bypass certain stringent regulations that typical passenger cars must meet. As a quadricycle, the Microlino Spiaggina can reach speeds of up to 90 km/h (56 mph), making it suitable for city streets and short coastal drives.
Despite being classified as a quadricycle, the Microlino doesn’t compromise on safety. According to the company, the vehicle’s chassis is built using automotive-level design standards, ensuring a secure and reliable ride for the two people it can carry. Its compact size (measuring just 2.5 meters in length) allows it to fit into parking spaces where most cars would struggle, making it a convenient choice for urban dwellers.
The Spiaggina model: A nod to beach cars of the past
The new Microlino Spiaggina is heavily influenced by classic beach cars like the Fiat 600 Jolly and Citroen Mehari, combining retro aesthetics with cutting-edge technology. As the company describes it, “Inspired by legendary beach cars…the Microlino Spiaggina merges retro aesthetics with modern technology.” This new model eliminates the side and rear windows, offering an open-air experience perfect for cruising along the coast or through scenic European vacation spots like Portofino or St. Tropez.
For those who might want a little more protection from the elements, the Spiaggina also comes with a fabric canopy, allowing drivers to take shelter from the sun while still enjoying the breeze. The minimalistic design makes it ideal for a fun summer ride, offering a unique driving experience that sets it apart from most urban electric vehicles.
Vegan leather and water resistance: Built for the outdoors
Inside the Microlino Spiaggina, you’ll find an interior made from vegan leather designed specifically to withstand outdoor conditions. This material was developed with moisture resistance in mind, making it especially durable for use near the water. Whether you’re driving along the coast or simply looking for a quick escape to the beach, the car’s interior ensures comfort and practicality. As the company puts it, “This makes it perfect for coastal drives or a day at the beach.”
Performance and practicality: Specs that matter
While the design is a key selling point, the Microlino Spiaggina’s performance is equally noteworthy. The car features a 12.5 kW electric motor, capable of reaching speeds up to 90 km/h (56 mph). It’s powered by a 10.5 kWh battery, which provides a maximum range of up to 177 km (110 miles) on a single charge. This range should be sufficient for short trips in and around the city or for day outings to nearby vacation spots.
Charging the Spiaggina is simple, thanks to its 2.2 kW onboard charger, which allows for easy plug-ins to any standard household outlet. For those who need a quicker turnaround, a higher-power charger can reduce charging times to just 2-4 hours.
While it might not be the fastest or most powerful EV on the market, the Microlino Spiaggina is designed to be a practical and fun solution for city and leisure driving. Its small size means that parking is a breeze, and the 230 liters (8 cubic feet) of storage space in the rear ensures you can still carry your essentials, whether that’s groceries, beach gear, or shopping bags.
Pricing and availability
The Microlino Spiaggina was officially unveiled at the Paris Motor Show, where it immediately caught the attention of EV enthusiasts and potential buyers. The price for this limited-edition model is set at €24,990, with deliveries expected to begin early next year. For those looking for a more affordable option, the base Microlino model is available for closer to €17,000 (around $19,000).
Though not an impulse buy, the Microlino is clearly aimed at consumers who appreciate both style and practicality in a compact, electric package. As Microlino Co-Founder Merlin Ouboter remarked, “The Microlino Spiaggina is an idea we’ve had in mind for years, and it’s finally become a reality. It will be the most stylish vehicle for Europe’s summer destinations like Portofino, St. Tropez, or Ibiza.”
The Microlino: Fun, stylish, and a bit pricey
The Microlino Spiaggina is not for everyone. With a starting price of nearly €25,000 for the Spiaggina model, it’s more of a luxury item than a budget-friendly electric vehicle. However, for those who can afford it, the Spiaggina offers a unique combination of retro design, modern technology, and practicality. It’s a car that makes a statement, perfect for zipping through city streets or enjoying a leisurely coastal drive.
The Microlino Spiaggina is not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about enjoying the journey in style. While the price might give some buyers pause, those who do invest in this quirky, cute microcar are likely to enjoy every mile behind the wheel.
Source: Micro
