Originally produced in Bresso, in the province of Milan, by the Italian company Iso, the Isetta microcar put postwar Italy — and not only Italy — on wheels, as German manufacturer BMW acquired the rights in 1955. Original — indeed, utterly original both in the Fifties and today — it was characterised by an egg-shaped body, exceptional interior space relative to its diminutive dimensions, and, above all, a single front-opening hatch, hinged at the side, that incorporated the entire front end of the car. The Isetta set a benchmark, anticipating all modern city cars and making economy of running costs, as well as low fuel consumption, its hallmark. Now it's back. Only this time, it's electric.

Watch the official presentation today at 18:00

Perfect for the city

The iconic Isetta was a success. A tradition that looks set to repeat itself, given that the first 1,500 Microlinos have already sold out. Microlino is the name given by the Swiss company Micro Mobility Systems of Küsnacht, in the Canton of Zurich, to the small electric car inspired by the Isetta to the point of reproducing its lines, its front-opening hatch, its sliding side windows and its openable roof, which can also be used as an emergency exit. The mechanics have been radically revised: conventional petrol engines have given way to a 20 hp motor powered by lithium-ion batteries, capable of pushing the Swiss microcar — approved for two occupants as a heavy quadricycle — to a top speed of 90 km/h. A performance that reveals the city-going character of the Microlino, made ideal for urban use by its zero emissions, its particularly compact dimensions, its low weight and its agility in traffic.

The Microlino electric microcar

The Microlino alongside the iconic Isetta, whose lines and cabin solutions it draws inspiration from

The Microlino has rear-wheel drive

The Microlino retains access to the cabin via the front hatch, a hallmark of the Isetta of the '50s

The Microlino's tubular chassis

The Microlino is designed for urban use

Thanks to its compact dimensions, up to three Microlinos can be parked in a single parking space

The openable roof also serves as an emergency exit

The Microlino will be produced in Italy

A standard parking space can accommodate as many as three Microlinos. The Swiss electric Isetta, with a range of between 90 and 120 km depending on driving style, represents a possible answer to the chronic lack of space in urban centres. The start of series production, which will take place in Italy at the facilities of Tazzari EV in Imola — a company specialising in electric microcars for over ten years — is scheduled for the end of 2017, with prices ranging from €8,000 to €12,000 depending on the trim level. Style, practicality and a retro touch go hand in hand with sustainability.