PREVIEW

‘Bubble cars’ could soon be a regular sight on British roads again for the first time since the 1960s. The tiny cars became an unlikely style icon and now, thanks to Swiss firm Microlino, a car based on the original four-wheel European design will return to British roads later this year. Enthusiasts for the old Isetta are already excited about the Microlino’s potential arrival in the U.K.. Original Isetta owner Dave Watson said he “can’t wait” to get to try the new version - with owners hotly anticipating its arrival. He says the original was “cheap transport and seen as a one up from a motorcycle” as it kept the driver and a partner “dry and warm”.The Microlino was first unveiled at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show and entered production in Europe six years later. Different models of the Microlino come with battery packs of 5.5kWh, 10.5kWh or 15.0kWh, corresponding to claimed ranges of 58 miles, 110 miles and 142 miles. It mimics the Isetta’s front-mounted door, but unlike the original, it has a reverse gear - making parking in the tiny car even easier. In Europe, the Microlino starts at €17,990 (£15,400) and rises to €19,990 (£17,100) for a 10.5kWh model, or €21,990 (£18,800) with the 15.0kWh battery.