Micro-car is intended for inner-city journeys of up to 15 miles and uses swappable batteries

A firm named Bolt, aptly backed by runner extraordinaire Usain Bolt, has revealed a two-seat electric car, called the Bolt Nano, designed for short, inner-city journeys.

Bolt initially launched a range of micro-scooters intended for trips of up to two miles, but it has now introduced the car to its range. The Nano addresses journeys of up to 15 miles.

The one-plus-one – a similar set-up to the Renault Twizy – is designed to fit through a doorway and has space for bags. 

Bolt claims the Nano, unveiled at the Viva Technology conference in Paris, France, is the only electric micro-car in the world to use swappable batteries. Seat unveiled its Minimó quadricycle in March this year, which also uses swappable batteries. However, this isn't due to make production until 2021. By contrast, orders are now being taken for the Nano.

The Nano has been created for ride-sharing, so you can use the car and park it whenever and wherever you want. It can then be docked at a station or users can come to swap batteries.

Bolt’s main announcement at Vivatech was a plan to expand its scooter service into Paris. It aims to spread to other European cities in near future, although the UK is unlikely due to regulatory issues.

The Bolt company was founded in 2018 and is based in Florida, US. Its website states it was launched to “fill the gaps in micro mobility”.

It adds: “Bolt has conducted extensive research within urban areas and is prepared to revolutionise transportation. We believe that we can provide a scooter that will aid in alleviating transit issues including traffic congestion with little to no impact on pedestrian comfort."

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