Akmal Azhar
Malaysia has become the first Asian market to preview the Microlino, an electric micro-car conceived by Zurich’s Micro Mobility Systems and assembled in Turin, Italy. Though the Microlino is already present in several European markets, its journey began in 2016 when the initial concept was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show. After a lengthy legal dispute during its early development, the original Microlino 1.0 was overhauled and reimagined as the Microlino 2.0, whose production form made its debut in September 2021. In addition to the standard model, the line now includes the Lite and Spiaggina variants — the latter being a limited edition with open sides and a convertible roof, and the former a lower-power version.
From Microlino 1.0 to 2.0
In its current 2.0 guise, the Microlino departs from the tubular frame of the 1.0 by adopting a unibody chassis — claimed to be a first in the heavy quadricycle segment — bringing gains in structural rigidity and safety. The suspension architecture is also simplified, featuring MacPherson struts on both front and rear in place of the previous pushrod front setup and rigid rear axle.
Retro-Inspired Design
The design clearly pays homage to bubble cars of the 1950s such as the Isetta, with signature elements that include LED light strips front and rear, headlamps integrated onto the side mirrors, and a single front door that opens like a refrigerator lid — though in this version the door is motorised. Unlike vintage designs, the steering wheel does not move with the door, making ingress and egress more convenient.
Battery Options and Performance
On display in Malaysia was the standard model equipped with a 15 kWh battery, using either nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) or nickel cobalt aluminium (NCA) chemistry, delivering a WLTP-rated range of 228 km. This battery powers a rear-mounted motor with output rated at 17 PS (≈12.4 kW) and 17.9 Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 50 km/h in about five seconds and reach a top speed of 90 km/h. In other markets, smaller battery options of 5.5 kWh (93 km) and 10.5 kWh (177 km) are also offered, all paired with the same motor. Charging is limited to AC input at a maximum of 2.2 kW, with 0–80% state of charge achievable in two hours (5.5 kWh), four hours (10.5 kWh) or 5.5 hours (15 kWh).
Compact Dimensions and Capacity
The Microlino’s diminutive size underscores its urban orientation: it measures just 2,519 mm in length, 1,473 mm in width and 1,501 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 1,566 mm. Despite this small footprint, it accommodates two passengers and offers 230 litres of boot space. With a curb weight between 496 and 530 kg (depending on battery), the Microlino qualifies as an L7e quadricycle under EU classification, meaning it may be driven by holders of standard car or motorcycle licences. The Lite variant, with 8 PS and a reduced top speed of 45 km/h, is classified as L6e in some jurisdictions, which in certain countries allows drivers as young as 14 years to operate it — sometimes without a full driving licence.
Licensing and Regulations in Malaysia
In Malaysia, the Microlino will require a Competent Driving Licence (CDL) of class DA (automatic transmission cars of unloaded weight up to 3,500 kg), and drivers must be at least 17 years old. The vehicle has been homologated for Malaysian roads, as evidenced by two left-hand drive units already locally registered, though it is prohibited from travelling on major interstate highways.
Local Distributor and Launch Timeline
The local distributor, Go Daddy Motorsport Autotrader, indicated that the public launch will take place in the first quarter of 2026, pending confirmation of whether government EV incentives will be extended beyond their current expiry. Meanwhile the two preview units (a Pioneer Series edition and a Dolce trim in white) are available for rent through Flux at RM1,250 for five days.
Pricing and Incentives
Pricing has not yet been confirmed for Malaysia. On Microlino’s official site, the Lite version starts from CHF 15,990 (around RM 84,000), while the standard model and Spiaggina begin from CHF 17,990 (≈ RM 95,000) and CHF 24,990 (≈ RM 132,000), respectively. As the Microlino would be imported as a completely built unit (CBU) from Italy, any continuation of import and excise duty exemptions for EVs (currently in place until December 31, 2025) would be instrumental in keeping the final Malaysian price competitive.
