Moped Cars: The New Wave of Rural Youth Mobility
Moped cars, also known as 45 km/h cars, microcars, or mini-cars, are gaining popularity among young people in rural areas and apprentices in agriculture. These vehicles offer flexibility for training, shopping, or socialising, with some models affordable from around 8,000 euros.
One such moped car is the Ellenator, a converted Fiat 500 registered as a three-wheeled vehicle. It can be driven from the age of 16 with an A1 driver's license, reaching a top speed of about 90 km/h. It offers full car comfort and safety features, making it a practical choice for young drivers.
Organised children’s ride-sharing services, supported by digital platforms like the MIKiYo app, can enhance rural youth mobility. This promotes independence, reduces traffic, and aids sustainable mobility in areas with irregular public transport and parents acting as taxis.
Moped cars provide more weather protection and comfort than scooters. They have a closed interior, heating, windshield wipers, and ample space for bags or groceries. They can bridge the gap between scooters and cars, offering protection in bad weather and allowing short commuting distances.
However, moped cars lag behind passenger cars in crash safety. Many models lack ABS or standard airbags, and their low speed can lead to dangerous situations on the road. Driving training is recommended due to their different handling compared to scooters. They can be driven with an AM driver's license from the age of 15, without the need for a TÜV inspection, registration, or car tax, only requiring a simple insurance plate.
Moped cars offer flexibility and practicality for young people in rural areas. With affordable prices and full car comfort, they promote independence and sustainable mobility. However, safety features and driving training should be considered. Organised ride-sharing services can further enhance their benefits.
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