Sales of micro electric cars are poised to rise globally, catering to consumer preferences for nimble, affordable vehicles and the need to reduce emissions for local journeys. Operating at moderate speeds with medium-range batteries and minimal amenities, these innovative models allow automakers and designers to reconsider the must-have features for a sustainable trip.

While electric vehicles (EVs) could transform “the very meaning of a car itself”, many automakers are integrating futuristic features into already-in-demand family and luxury cars (suiting EVs’ elevated price point). These models offer amenities enabled by EVs’ unique architecture – whether that means standing in for a smartphone, or providing storage in unexpected locations (among other features).

From e-bikes to electrified motor scooters, the micromobility sector is integral to the future of sustainable transport. Increased use of electric micromobility has already caused a 1% decrease in global oil demand (BNEF, 2022). Best-in-class features remove the stress from everyday commuting, whether through practical anti-theft technology or high-powered, but space-saving formats.

While batteries underpin electric mobility, there’s growing scepticism about their long-term sustainability. Given the mining required to access essential metals, and the considerable weight of long-range batteries, 73% of consumers worldwide are worried about their environmental consequences (Ipsos, 2023). Forward-thinking brands aim to future-proof battery production by investing in recycling, designing mining-free alternatives, and using them as flexible power sources.