Agile, practical and attractive, electric microcars could well steal the show at the 2024 Paris Motor Show.
The 2024 Paris Motor Show highlights this phenomenon that we have already often talked about, that of the strong arrival of license-free electric cars, also called “microcars”. This segment, formerly associated with the countryside and adolescents, now appeals to a wider audience, attracted by the practicality, accessibility and reduced ecological impact of these vehicles.
As much as we are skeptical about the development of the market for pedal-powered quadricycles (or basically 4-wheeled electric bikes with a roof), at AP we strongly believe in this segment of electric mini-cars intended for urban and periphery use. -urban on a daily basis.
A growing market
Moreover, the market seems to prove us right. The license-free car sector is experiencing growing popularity, with sales doubling between 2019 and 2023, from 13,376 to 26,238 registrations, half of which are electric models. Growth driven by the enthusiasm for sustainable urban mobility, the lowering of the legal driving age to 14 years for light quadricycles, and the arrival of new attractive models. Historically used by teenagers or adults without a license, these small vehicles now attract a wider audience, particularly seniors or city dwellers looking for a practical transport solution. These cars avoid the hassle of obtaining a driving license while offering an efficient alternative in urban areas, where traffic jams are rife and parking space is limited.
In terms of prices, the range is still quite wide and not always very affordable since prices vary depending on the models and options, ranging from 7,990 euros for a basic Citroën Ami to more than 19,990 euros for a Microlino with a license. In terms of accessibility without a license, remember that many manufacturers offer electric models, such as the Citroën Ami, the Fiat Topolino, the Ligier Myli, the Mobilize Duo and the Microlino.
The Mondial de l’Auto goes big on small
The Paris Motor Show, which started yesterday October 14, also seems to confirm this trend, with many manufacturers and models present. Thus, the new version of the Citroën Ami, slightly revamped, will remain one of the flagship models of this meeting. With more than 65,000 customers in 17 countries, the “queen of high schools” has conquered the market thanks to its attractive price and original design. Citroën highlights the Ami at the Paris Motor Show with a “Friend tower” made up of three stacked cars, and takes advantage of the event to launch a “Green Cruise” with electric Amis equipped with solar panels for a journey of Paris to Cape Town in South Africa.
Other historic manufacturers are resisting. Fiat also imposes its Topolino, an Ami Italian dolce vita version, still billed at 9,890 euros, or 1,900 euros more than its French cousin. Aixam Mega and Ligier, the historic French brands of license-free cars, maintain their presence on the market. They offer modern and well-equipped models, such as the Ligier Myli with power steering and air conditioning, with a price starting from 11,999 euros. François Ligier, CEO of Ligier, also affirmed for the occasion that the time when these vehicles were discreet is over. Today, they rely on bright colors and high-tech equipment, such as touch screens and advanced security systems, to attract a younger and more demanding audience.
Renault is also back in the race with the Mobilize Duo, an ultra-compact and connected electric city car, available by subscription or car sharing. However, the diamond brand has not forgotten professionals with the Mobilize Bento, an electric micro-utility.
“Exotic” models with irresistible charm
But it’s not just the big brands. Others, more “exotic” are emerging or quietly making a place for themselves in the sun. This is the case, for example, of Microlino, the vintage alternative, which is also present. The Swiss manufacturer offers models with a retro look inspired by the Isetta of the 1950s. The Microlino stands out for its lightness thanks to its aluminum construction and its commitment to local production. However, with a price of around 20,000 euros (or 17,990 euros without a license), the Microlino targets a segment closer to premium.
Other lesser known players will be present at the World Cup. This is the case of Eon Motors, which presents the electric Weez City-Pro, a utility vehicle, but our favorite goes directly to Kilow, which offers the already famous “La Bagnole”, available in two versions, with or without a license, already often mentioned in these columns with glitter in their eyes.
Another sign of the evolution of the sector, even a historic institution like Mobilians, the organization representing the automotive professions, has created a new profession dedicated to “micro-electric vehicles”, highlighting the growing importance of this segment.
We can be a bagnolard and admit that this is not contradictory: the development of microcars reflects a profound evolution in the conception of mobility, which we could describe as “proximity mobility”. These vehicles are no longer content to be simple economic solutions, they embody an answer to the burning questions of energy efficiency, sustainability and optimization of urban transport. The market is thus becoming more diverse, offering both affordable options and high-end models with an ecological touch. It could be that this is no longer just a passing trend, but that we may be witnessing a small, silent revolution that could well redefine the future of urban mobility.
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