German Nelo 4.3 Two-Seater EV Is a Moped in Disguise With a Kick, Leave the Car at Home

Folks, if you don't live in Germany or are a tad older, I can't expect you to have ever heard of Econelo. However, this electric mobility brand has been around since 2017 and has, since then, released EV after EV, some aimed at the elderly and some at younger souls getting their first taste of what it's like behind the wheel.

That said, the Nelo 4.3 is one of the EVs in this team's lineup that is suitable for absolutely anyone. Considering such a high level of versatility, I felt it might be a neat idea to take a moment to explore this oddball ride.

First and foremost, allow me to point out that the Nelo 4.3 is the latest EV to the already existing Nelo lineup, a family of EVs that even sold as a three-wheel variant, with one at the front and two at the rear. You know, the sort of wheelbase that's prone to tipping; if you've ever ridden an ATC, you know what I'm talking about. It's four wheels from now on because who likes a lawsuit?

Now, I'm all about odd and weird rides like these, and honestly, there are a few reasons why I'd consider grabbing one of these babies. The first is the fact that it's a completely enclosed space, and secondly, it's a closed cabin with power windows. Did I mention that there's room for two people in that slim figure? One driver and one passenger at the rear is all that's possible, but I'm sure some parents would have no problem squeezing two kids in there; they'll fit.

Speaking of slim figures, the 4.3 comes in with a width of no more than 1.28 m (4.2 ft with mirrors), making it small enough to fit on a sidewalk. If parked correctly, you could even fit two of these babies into one spot. This also opens up access to small city streets that would otherwise be inaccessible to your average car. It's actually small enough to be considered nothing more than a cabin scooter.

Actually, part of the reason why this puppy can be considered a scooter (European) or moped (American) is due to its top speed. Econelo limits the Nelo 4.3 to no more than 45 kph, the limit for moped classification over in Europe.

This top speed is offered by a rear-wheel drive brushless motor running under 2,000 W, more than enough power for two people to cruise around town without any issues, but it just won't be for a very long time. As standard, the 4.3 is equipped with a 58 Ah battery operating under 60 V, which means a peak range of up to 50 km (30 mi), according to the manufacturer's website. That's clearly in a test setting, so expect that number to drop once another passenger and some groceries join the mix.

While that's clearly not the most range in the world, there is a benefit to using a battery of this size: Econelo states that you can just plug this puppy into your garage wall socket and in up to 8 hours, be ready to hit the streets once again. As a commuter vehicle in a tight urban setting, it may be just what the doctor ordered. Heck, the video below even shows this thing driving around on sidewalks, bicycle lanes, on the streets, and through parks.

With an idea of what's possible with a Nelo 4.3, let's explore all the little details that make up the rest. First, there are two doors on each side of the EV, making access to the interior a breeze, and once you're inside, the electric ignition, backup camera, LCD display, and all the dashboard features needed to ensure the Nelo 4.3 is road legal. This means turn signals, windshield wiper controls and fluid reservoirs, and a hand-free system. Let's not forget about front and rear disc brakes.

There's just a feeling I couldn't shake as I got to know the Nelo 4.3: is this thing Chinese? Honestly, I searched far and wide for this answer to find nothing. In all honesty, it could be Chinese, but Econelo does state that they design and manufacture all their EVs, made possible by a 2,000 square meter warehouse, a 400 square meter repair center, and a 150 square meter test drive center. What's missing? I'll let you comment below, and if you know of something similar coming out of China, feel free to let us know.

Last, but not least, it is important to note that Econelo only ships within Germany, so if you do fall in love with the €6,500 ($7,100 at current exchange rates) piece of hardware before you, you must sprechen sie, Deutsch! Just a little EV worth noting if you're looking to ditch your car as much as possible.