Germany sees 80% surge in microcar popularity amid safety concerns

microcars moped cars road safety German insurance industry electric mobility

The number of microcars, also known as moped cars, in Germany has increased by nearly 80 percent since 2022. Data from the German Insurance Association (GDV) shows that approximately 46,000 microcars were covered by liability insurance at the end of 2025, up from 26,000 in 2022.

These vehicles, which include models like the Fiat Topolino and Citroën Ami, can be driven by individuals as young as 15 with an AM class license. They typically have a maximum speed of 45 km/h and are often electric. While they offer a practical mobility alternative for short distances, insurers have raised concerns regarding passenger safety.

Kirstin Zeidler, head of accident research for insurers, noted that the vehicle structure of a microcar is not comparable to a small passenger car, leading to a higher risk of serious or fatal injuries during collisions. In 2025, 2,300 liability claims were recorded, representing about 50 claims per 1,000 vehicles—a rate similar to standard passenger cars. The GDV is calling for higher safety standards and more flexibility regarding the European-mandated 425-kilogram weight limit to allow for the installation of additional safety technology.

Separately, recent studies indicate shifting trends in the German automotive market. Interest in electric vehicles is rising, with 25 percent of Germans expressing a preference for pure electric models. Additionally, brands like Skoda, Kia, and BYD are seeing significant growth in customer inquiries, particularly within the electric vehicle segment.

Entities

Citroën · Fiat · German Insurance Association · Germany · Kirstin Zeidler

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[● 2 SOURCES] Micro-cars are not required to have airbags, electronic stability programs, or automatic emergency braking systems. www.wz.de
[● 2 SOURCES] The number of micro-cars in Germany rose from approximately 26,000 in 2022 to around 46,000 by the end of 2025. www.wz.de
[● 2 SOURCES] The vehicle structure of a micro-car is not comparable to that of a small passenger car. www.wz.de
[● 2 SOURCES] In 2025, insurers registered approximately 2,300 third-party liability claims involving micro-cars. www.wz.de
[● 2 SOURCES] The damage frequency for micro-cars is 50 claims per 1,000 insured vehicles. www.wz.de