While large, powerful cars and vehicles seem to be getting all the attention, the market for small cars remains strong. Thanks to EV technology, more and more microcars are available on the market that are pushing the boundaries of mobility.
In fact, small cars built for one or two passengers have existed for decades and they have catered to specific needs of some car owners. Let's take a look at some of these small cars of the past and those of today that are redefining what cars can be.
Peel P50 - The Icon of Small Vehicles
Originally produced in the Isle of Man from 1962 to 1965, this three-wheeled vehicle is a single seater wonder whose main goal is to take you places with the barest features. Originally powered by a 49cc, single-cylinder engine, it can reach up to 38 mph with its minuscule body (54" long and 39" wide). On its first release, the Peel P50 cost roughly $270 but it has now become a collector's item with original P50s being sold for more than $140,000 when converted to USD according to Autocar UK.
Fortunately, the Peel P50 is making some form of a comeback with new designs and engine options.
Peel Trident
The Peel P50 has a sibling worth talking about - the Peel Trident, a bubble-topped micro car from the 1960s.
With a 49cc engine, it reached 28 mph and got nearly 100 mpg.
The three-wheeled microcar is the smallest two-seater car ever made. It was nicknamed "the terrestrial flying saucer" back then because of its design.
Thanks to recent revival by the England-based manufacturer, this retro-futuristic car has been reborn in modern electric versions.
Renault Twizy - Your Electric Vehicle from the Future
In 2012, Renault introduced something unique, fun and futuristic - the Twizy. The Twizy comes in two versions: the two-seater version or the cargo version which prioritizes cargo over passenger making the latter a single seater vehicle only. Fully electric, this microcar is perfect for city transportation.
In terms of speed, you are given two options: if you're driving without a license in most European countries, you can go for the 5HP version with speed of up to 28mph. If you want something faster, the 17HP version can get you up to 50mph according to Renault Group. As an electric vehicle, each charge can get you 56 miles - less mileage compared to current electric vehicles, but it's built as a simple mode of transportation for quick travel - think of it as a fun type of ride if you want to go for groceries.
Kenguru EV - A Smart Solution for Inclusivity
The dawn of electric vehicles has created one of the most impressive types of vehicles in the market today - the Kenguru EV. At first glance, this microcar offers nothing special because it looks like any other small EV on the road. But a closer look will reveal something different - the vehicle is built specifically for those on a wheelchair.
Featuring a rear ramp for wheelchair access, those on wheelchairs can easily climb up on the vehicle, lock their wheelchair in with additional safety harness and drive the EV with ease. The Kenguru doesn't have a chair inside because the passenger already comes with it. Its motorcycle-like handlebar for simpler control makes it really easy for anyone to use the vehicle. According to the Clean Fleet Report, it can reach up to 28mph and each charge has a range of up to 68 miles. It's also relatively affordable - it's only $25,000 and should cost lower after tax credits.
Smallest Cars - The Future of Microcars
Microcars are here to stay. The challenges of urban mobility and economically savvy buyers have helped shape a thriving market for smallest cars. Aside from these unique vehicles, microcars with standard designs such as Smart Fortwo, Citroën Ami, Microlino and the Fiat 500e are getting some attention from modern car shoppers. While they come with some limitations, they are still vehicles that can take you from point A to point B with ease and style.
