Messerschmitt microcar makes a comeback after a half-century pause

Mention the name ‘Messerschmitt’ to a normal person, and chances are they will remember the Bf 109, an infamous German fighter plane of the WWII era. The defeat at that war forced the company to switch production from planes to tiny three-wheel passenger cars nicknamed the “Kabinenroller”. The first such car saw the daylight in 1964.

Fast forward to 2020, when most of the world was forced into idleness and boredom following the global Covid-19 lockdown. Some companies found it too wasteful to just do nothing, though, and Messerschmitt in particular came up with a modern reincarnation of the Kabinenroller.

More specifically, the model will ship under two names: KR-202 (petrol) and KR-E5000 (electric). It will feature hydraulic disc brakes on all three wheels, adjustable suspension, a GFRP body, and a combined aluminum/steel frame.

Power for the first model will come from a 125cc, one-cylinder internal combustion engine burning gas for 7.3 horsepower. The electric version will make do with a 6.7-HP motor. Both will max out at 75 miles per hour (120 km/h).

Pre-orders or the KR-202 start from €10,950, while the E5000 commands a €2,000 premium.