Can micro EVs spark interest in Australia?

Large SUVs and utes are common on Australian roads, but smaller vehicles such as e-scooters and e-bikes are also becoming popular as people seek to reduce costs of transport.  

Micro EVs offer a similar blend of affordability and practicality, but with added benefits like protection from the weather, making them an appealing choice for city dwellers.
 
Indeed, some micro EVs have already been trialled in Australia for last mile delivery services, such as by Australia Post and Domino's.

Are micro EVs practical for personal use, what are their benefits and what challenges do they pose? 

What is a micro EV? 

VFACTS, the industry automotive sales report, lists just two all-electric cars in its “micro” segment in Australia – the Fiat 500e and its "venomous" equivalent, the Abarth 500e.

But the 3.6 metre-long 500e is a giant compared to a swathe of tiny EVs available in China and Europe. Ranging from 1.7 to 2.9 metres in length, these diminutive zero emissions vehicles pack a big punch when it comes to reducing carbon emissions.

Notable examples available overseas in this growing segment include the quirky Citroen Ami and the retro Microlino. 

There is also the pragmatic Wuling Mini and the zippy Mobilize Duo, which is replacing the discontinued Renault Twizy.

The 2.4 metre long Citroen Ami, with its modest 75km range, is built for short urban jaunts. In France, when speed limited to 45km/hr it can be driven by those 14 and over if they have completed a basic road safety assessment.

The Microlino

In contrast, the Microlino, reminiscent of classic bubble cars, offers a longer range (up to 230km), catering to a broader range of urban and suburban travel needs.

The Wuling Mini EV, originating from China, stands out with a range of 120-300km, offering versatility and a more extended range at a competitive price point. It is the largest of our examples below at 2.9 metres in length and hit the headlines when it outsold the Tesla Model 3 in China in 2021.

Meanwhile, the super-slim Mobilize Duo which replaces Reault's Twizy epitomises eco-friendly micro transport, being made outof 50 per cent recyclable materials, and is just 1.3m wide.

(Note, the petrol-powered 2.7 metre Smart Fortwo micro car was sold in Australia from 2003 to 2015, but even if there were plans to introduce its all-electric EQ fortwo replacement, it no longer fits in the micro car category.) 

Benefits of Micro EVs

• Lower price and economic efficiency: Due to their smaller size and the reduced need for large batteries, micro EVs are generally more affordable. This lower price point makes them accessible to a wider range of consumers.
• Smaller environmental footprint: Micro EVs have a significantly smaller environmental footprint compared to larger electric vehicles. They require fewer materials for production, which in turn, reduces the amount of critical minerals needed.

The Wuling Mini

• Easier to park: The short length of micro EVs means they are easier to park. If parked nose to kerb, they take up as little as a third of the space of a normal car when it is parallel parked.
• Reducing congestion and pollution: In busy urban areas, small and micro EVs can help reduce congestion on roads and pollution in the air.
• Zippy handling: While the power specs in the table above seem low, micro EVs typically weigh about half a tonne, so the instant torque of the electric motor combined with dodgem-like dynamics still chalks up a fun driving experience. 

The Mobilize Duo

Challenges of micro EVs

• Regulatory hurdles: Overseas these vehicles are classed as quadricycles, a classification that overseas impacts their road legality and usage. Jurisdictions such as the Netherlands initially faced hurdles as a lack of regulation saw a proliferation of unregistered micro cars taking up valuable footpath space. It has since regulated these vehicles to ensure loopholes were not exploited.
• Classification updates required: Australian design rule (ADR) vehicle categories currently jump from two and three-wheelers (mopeds and motorcycles) straight to passenger cars.
• Shorter range: One significant challenge of micro EVs is the limited range compared to larger EVs. While this rules them out for long distance travel, it's worth noting that the average daily commute is under 40km, well within the range of most small and micro EVs.
• Limited storage space: One notable drawback of micro EVs is limited storage space. While great for maneuvering in tight spaces, the tradeoff for compact design is less cargo capacity for luggage, shopping, or other daily activities.
• Shift in driver thinking: Adopting micro EVs requires a shift in driver thinking, especially regarding driving range. Daily travel needs of drivers are often significantly less than the maximum range of these vehicles.
• AC charging only: Micro EVs usually have smaller batteries, which means they are often not suitable for DC fast charging. Because of this limitation, planning is required to ensure the battery is fully replenished.
• Potentially lower safety ratings: Due to their compact size, micro EVs often have lower safety ratings than standard-sized vehicles. Ensuring robust safety standards while maintaining compactness is important, but when compared to motorcycles and mopeds, micro EVs offer more protection. 

The road ahead: are micro EVs coming to Australia?

The future of micro EVs in Australia is as yet uncertain, but with micromobility options such as e-scooters and e-bikes becoming more popular, it is likely that commuters may look favourably on the introduction of micro EVs also.

Designed primarily for short journeys, they offer a cost-effective option as a daily driver – but only for certain uses. Limited cargo space and seats mean they are best used as a runabout rather than for trips like large grocery shops.

Also, with the safety of e-bikes and e-scooters thrown into question, it is imperative that standards are put in place to ensure adequate compliance around various potential safety issues of micro EVs.

With the increasing emphasis on reducing carbon footprints and easing urban congestion, these vehicles could play a pivotal role. Their appeal lies not just in their environmental benefits but also in their potential to revolutionise urban transport – making it more accessible, less congestive, and, importantly, more sustainable.