Recently, it was revealed that BMW might soon enter the microcar market with a new/old brand, Isetta. No mention has been made of what might power one of these retro micro-machines, but we'd of course hope for at least a hybrid option if not a complete electric. If your tastes lean more towards the older models, perhaps you'd be more interested in a Harrington BB, which is a replica of the old Isetta minus the engine. Hub motors in each wheel allow for four-wheel-drive, while lead acid batteries currently hold the charge. Unfortunately, these lead acid batteries are most likely holding down the performance potential of the vehicle. As it is currently configured, the BB can only reach a top speed of 30 miles per hour. An eight hour charge is required to allow for a maximum range of 60 miles.

According to the official website, though, the Harrington BB is still in its infancy, and there are plans to upgrade both the batteries and in-wheel motors, which should help out on the speed and range issues. Once they get all of the details worked out, they plan to offer both complete vehicles and kits of the electric microcar. With operations based in Saigan, Vietnam, we are not sure whether Harrington plans on selling cars or kits in the U.S., but we've sent off a request for more information as it becomes available. Thanks for the tip, James!

[Source: Group Harrington via Retro Thing]

People are already comparing the new Smart with old microcars like the Iso (and BMW) Isetta, so it makes sense that BMW would consider producing a challenger using the old, but not forgotten, marque. Reports indicate that this is a distinct possibility. In an ironic twist, BMW may consider producing the microcar to offset their large luxury-performance cars to comply with upcoming European CO₂ regulations. Back when the Isetta was initially launched, the profits from that model are what allowed BMW to branch into the large car market in the first place. How the times have changed!

Although the Smart is a thoroughly modern version of the microcar concept, the Isetta would draw a more retro profile. Hey, it's worked for BMW before - their Mini brand sets a fine pattern but is a tough act to follow. BMW has a great deal of experience making small and reliable motors for their line of motorcycles, so creating a suitable powerplant might not be a problem. Diesel engines would be a near lock for the European market, but no hybrid is planned for the States. Instead, a small turbocharged gasoline engine would likely be on the menu. If these reports prove accurate, retro and modern will go head-to-head once again in the microcar market, leading to more choices for the consumer.

[Source: Auto Express]

As a step-up from scooters and motorcycles, microcars were a common sight in Europe shortly after World War II because many inhabitants were not able to afford larger cars and many manufacturers could not afford the research and development costs of large passenger cars. The Iso Isetta is one such microcar, originally coming from Italy. The car was also picked up by BMW and was one reason the struggling German carmaker was able to maintain a little bit of profitability. The Detroit News thinks that the Smart is a bit like those old "bubble cars", as they were known way back when. Similarities include the distinct styling, small size, small engine, two passenger arrangement and even the sliding canvas roof option. What may be more important, though, are the differences. While the old Isetta was known in Germany as a "coffin on wheels", the Smart was designed with safety in mind. Also, although a small engine is used, highway speeds are attainable in the modern microcar. Like the Isetta, the Smart gets pretty good gas mileage.

Like the old Isetta, the Smart has a "buzz" surrounding it, as mentioned in our source article. I imagine that the world will look back on the Smart in a similar way as they do now with the Isetta. The question now is whether or not the small "microcar" idea will stick here in America. The success, or lack of it, of the Smart will go a long way towards answering that question.

[Source: Detroit News]

I'm pretty sure that the majority of us would like to cruise in style. Whether that style gives off the image that we love high-performance, high utility or high economy, whatever we choose to ride or drive says something about us. A Camry tells other people that you value reliability and resale value, while a Corvette tells people that you like to be seen, and be seen going fast. What does a scooter say? That depends on who you ask, as some people, mostly men, wouldn't want to be seen dead on one. Or, others may think of the "Mod" craze from long ago. Whatever others think, you can rest assured that it is costing you less to get where you are going than them!

If you are interested in the history of how scooters and microcars got to where they are now, check out this new book. Did you think that the Smart car was the first of its kind? Not even close! That trail was blazed years ago by BMW, Fiat, Mini, Messerschmitt and many more. I have not yet read it, but I will. Maybe you should too!

[Source: Veloce Publishing]