Is BMW making a new Isetta?
As we motor our way through the 21st century, BMW look back in time and flirt with the revivification of the Isetta bubble car. Look out Fiat 500 and Smart Fortwo, the miniature legend looks set to make a comeback, only this time it’s moving on four wheels not three.
Tyre count aside, let’s go back to the beginning and to the birth of the Isetta.
The brainchild of Renzo Rivolta of Iso SpA, an Italian Engineering company manufacturing refrigerators & fridges. Spotting the need for a compact, budget car that would fare well in town, Rivolta introduced the Isetta or ‘Little Iso” in 1953. This small 237cc, twin cylinder, two stroke engine car sold surprisingly well and was franchised out to BMW in Germany within just a few years. BMW were looking to buoy up sales of their top-end, high-spec vehicles.
"The miniature legend looks set to make a comeback, only this time its moving on four wheels not three"
One of the most distinctive features of the original bubble car was the front opening door. The modern version, due to current safety restrictions, can no longer feature the signature front entry but the quirky bulbous shape remains.
Measuring only 2.4 metres long, with just enough space for two adults and some luggage, the task of bringing the concept up to date meant the new look Isetta’s dimensions are larger.
With its tiny frame, lightweight body and low CO2 emissions, it could help reduce the BMW range’s average output and assist in meeting with future targets. An emissions-neutral electric variant would also have the same effect and is rumoured to be the most likely model.
Although the new Isetta bubble concept car has been given no official confirmation of production by BMW, design proposals are said to be under consideration. You won’t see one of these on the showroom floor any time soon but keep your eyes peeled for more information on the new Isetta in 2010.
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