In 2016, a Swiss company introduced an idea at the Geneva Motor Show that showcased a compact electric bubble car. Over the years, three versions of the vehicle went into production under the Microlino brand. Now, there is a fourth concept on the table, known as the Spider, developed by Micro Mobility Systems AG.
This concept modifies the usual Microlino design by sealing the front door, removing the roof, and opening up the sides, creating a model that aims to meet the needs of certain US drivers. The design takes inspiration from the classic BMW-produced Isetta of the mid-1950s, which also had a distinctive front-loading door.
The existing Microlino models available in Europe are registered under the L6e or L7e category, essentially making them electric quadricycles. For the US market, however, the Spider could end up as a Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) or Low Speed Vehicle (LSV). According to the company, this classification would allow it to travel on roads with speed limits of 35 mph (56 km/h) or lower, which reportedly make up “half of total roadways in the country.” These roads are often used for short commutes in local neighborhoods, making the Spider a potential fit for day-to-day travel, resort transport, or use in golf clubs.
A key selling point for the Spider is that it is designed to function as a safer alternative to golf carts, particularly in residential areas. The leadership at Micro Mobility Systems AG believes there is room in the US market for an electric vehicle that covers most routine driving scenarios without requiring the bulk of a larger truck.
“Americans don’t just drive large cars,” said company chair, Wim Outober. “In fact, the US is the world’s biggest market for golf carts, where they’re often used for personal transport within neighborhoods. That’s exactly why we created the Microlino Spider. Consider it the antithesis to massive electric pickup trucks – not built for the 5% of trips where you need to haul a lot, but for the 95% of trips where you are alone, driving to work.”
One of the most noticeable differences from other Microlino models is the absence of a roof, making this version an open-air experience. A canvas shade option will be available for those who need some protection from the elements, but the Spider is meant to be open at the sides so occupants can “hop in and out in seconds … mimicking the ease and style of golf carts.” To enhance the interior, wood accents are included on the steering wheel and sill guards, while the rest of the cabin features “cool blue and white” finishes. On the exterior, the company describes “color-shifting paint transitions between shades of blue, green and purple depending on the light.”
Although Micro Mobility Systems AG is tight-lipped about additional technical details, the company says the Spider will offer specs similar to the regular Microlino. The existing Microlino is known to include a 12.4-kW motor and battery options up to 15 kWh, and any updates would be “adapted for US regulations.” The aim is to create a vehicle that navigates local roads efficiently, while also providing an alternative to larger and heavier electric models.
The Microlino Spider made its debut at the Brussels Motor Show 2025, showcasing its roofless body and reinforced rear roll bar. Micro also launched its new Microlino Custom program at the event, featuring an online configurator that allows buyers to personalize every detail of their vehicle before placing an order.
The Spider concept is intended to roll out in both the US and Europe, where the company already has a dealer network for the other Microlino models. To further its reach in the United States, the firm is looking to partner with “dealer groups, leasing companies and other entrepreneurs.” If all goes according to plan, buyers or renters in neighborhoods and resorts might soon be spotting a roofless electric bubble car offering a quick way to travel short distances without taking up excessive space on the road.
Source: Micro
