Electric mobility is accessible to everyone. Without a driver’s license. It’s enough to ride an electric scooter or bike, whether bought or rented. But what about driving on four wheels? The question is more complicated. Today, it has become possible thanks to a growing range of electric cars that require no license. Original manufacturers of these vehicles, such as Ligier or Aixam, have worked on developing 100% electric products. Other manufacturers, more accustomed to producing more “traditional” vehicles, like Renault and Citroën, have also entered the micro‑car segment.
Increase in “microcars” sales
These types of vehicles have existed for years. They are known for being used by drivers who have lost their license, seniors who no longer want to drive their car, or simply people without a license, such as teenagers over 14. With a short format — on average less than 3 meters long, 1.50 meters wide, and 2.50 meters high — these vehicles are especially light (just under 425 kg) and have a power output of 8.2 hp or less, with diesel models limited to 500 cm³. All limited to 45 km/h.
Micro‑cars that don’t have a great reputation among other road users. Noisy, slow “yogurt pots”… A niche market in which some manufacturers are trying to establish themselves. These small cars have seen their sales surge in recent months. In the first four months of the year, 7,088 new license‑free cars were sold in France, an increase of 31% year‑on‑year(*).
A “safety” aspect
Along the Mediterranean or Atlantic coasts, these vehicles have flourished on the roads. Between 2016 and 2020 in Corsica alone, sales nearly doubled. In the Var and Alpes‑Maritimes, the increase reached 45%, and 30% in the Bouches‑du‑Rhône. In 2020, 15,500 micro‑cars were registered, compared to 13,000 in 2016 (+16%)(*). One reason for this enthusiasm lies in the sense of safety they provide to parents who don’t want their children riding scooters in the dense traffic of certain urban areas. A “safety” choice that comes at a cost. Prices can reach around €10,000.
What is even more remarkable is the arrival on the market of 100% electric versions. Vehicles eligible for a €900 conversion bonus. But what are these electric cars that can be driven without the precious driving license?
What do we mean by “micro‑cars”?
Two types of vehicles are distinguished: “light” or “heavy” quadricycles. For the first category, the car must not exceed 425 kg, must have a power output of 6 kW or less, measure up to 3 meters long and 2.5 meters high, and offer two seats (accessible from age 14 with an AM license or BSR with a light‑quadricycle option). For the second category, the difference lies in the weight (450 kg max) and a power output of 15 kW or less. Dimensions must not exceed 3.70 meters in width and 2.5 meters in height. The speed for this category can reach up to 90 km/h and the vehicle may have more than two seats. A B1 license is required.
Renault, the first mainstream manufacturer to launch a micro‑car
One of the first of these manufacturers was Renault, which in 2011 introduced the Twizy. A vehicle that arrived like a UFO in the automotive world. It did not escape criticism: “What were the engineers of the diamond‑brand thinking when they proposed this electric quadricycle?” This Renault features a distinctive and unapologetic design. Somewhere between a micro‑car and a scooter? Something like that. The absence of window glazing on the doors may put some people off (optional). However, the vehicle has a significant advantage: its 100 km range, as well as easy charging and parking. Expect to pay around €10,000 (financing available with a 37‑month lease, €900 initial payment and €190 monthly payments).
The “Ami” Citroën
Later, other manufacturers entered this niche. One of the latest to make a splash is Citroën with the Ami. With a very unusual design, the little Citroën has shaken things up. With a 5.5 kWh battery, the micro‑car offers a 75 km range. Its charging method is unique: it takes only about 3 hours on a household outlet to fully recharge the battery.
A clear stance on simplicity. Inside, it’s modern but minimalist, with a major advantage: its price — €6,900. But it’s especially the sales and financing approach that is innovative. You can find it in Citroën dealerships — that’s normal — but also at Fnac or Darty… A new way of approaching car buying. A low price, and financing available through a 48‑month lease, with a €3,500 initial payment and a €19.99 monthly subscription.
Ligier launches its “e” version in 2022
For its part, Ligier, an iconic micro‑car manufacturer, is preparing to launch a 100% electric version on the market. The company, which already produced vehicles for professionals, will now enter the consumer market. Although no date has been announced, this new model is unlikely to be in the same category as the two other French models. The French brand is used to offering vehicles with extensive equipment — and therefore more expensive. Clearly, the target audience is broader. Beyond young urbanites and seniors with strong purchasing power, the brand aims at anyone who wants to get around differently, and without a driver’s license.
Well equipped, but at a price
At Aixam, the electric segment has been explored for some time. Perhaps the closest to a traditional car. For the Aixam e‑City model, for example, the range is 75 km on a full battery. Its strengths lie mainly in its equipment for a micro‑car: a 3.5‑inch TFT screen, a digital speedometer, an onboard computer, and a brake‑pad wear indicator. It is even possible to opt for a 6.2‑inch touchscreen offering a radio tablet, Bluetooth, USB, and a rear‑view camera. But here, we’re talking about micro‑car prices reaching €12,999. For leasing, expect an initial payment of €2,000, then just under €200 per month.
In the world of license‑free vehicles, electric mobility options are expanding with innovative products. An alternative mobility that will certainly grow in the minds of many industry players. A future that leans toward combining ease of movement and electromobility.
Pierre-Jean Côme
(*) AAA Data, an association specialized in processing vehicle registration data in France
(*)AAA Data, expert in information on the French automotive fleet.
