Microlino: A Micro-Mobility Revolution Driven by Design and Protected by WIPO

In today’s world, growing urbanization, traffic congestion, and environmental concerns are reshaping how we move. In the midst of this transformation, the Ouboter family from Switzerland is spearheading a small yet powerful revolution: Microlino. More than just an eco-friendly vehicle, Microlino stands as a symbol of sustainable urban mobility and the fusion of functional design with emotional appeal.

A Family Vision for Micro-Mobility

Microlino’s story actually begins in the 1990s, when Wim Ouboter invented the Micro Scooter as a practical and sustainable solution for short-distance travel. The product quickly gained global popularity, but was soon overwhelmed by counterfeits and copycats. This experience taught the family a hard but important lesson about the value of intellectual property (IP) protection.

Determined not to repeat history, the Ouboter family expanded their company, Micro Mobility Systems AG, with a renewed focus on innovation and protection. In 2015, Wim’s sons, Oliver and Merlin, joined the venture, giving birth to the Microlino project. Inspired by the classic “bubble cars” of the 1950s, Microlino challenges the dominance of bulky electric SUVs with its compact, efficient, and stylish urban design.

What Makes Microlino Special: Design with Function and Feeling

Microlino is more than just a vehicle – it’s a design statement that aims to create an emotional connection with its users. Its iconic front-opening door, retro-modern silhouette, and agile handling make it ideal for urban environments. Despite its small size, it comfortably seats two adults and provides space for everyday errands.

At its core, Microlino advocates a new mindset: why use oversized vehicles for an average daily commute of 35 km? The company promotes a smarter, more responsible way to get around – one that aligns with sustainability and urban living.

Design Protection: A Cornerstone of Microlino’s Success Strategy

Microlino’s success stems not only from engineering and aesthetics but also from a well-planned IP protection strategy. Drawing from past experiences, the Ouboter family ensures that every new design is protected before market launch. This proactive approach helps safeguard their brand identity and innovation from potential imitators.

At the heart of this strategy lies the Hague System offered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Through this system, Microlino can secure international design protection with a single application and one set of fees, making it far easier and more affordable to register its designs in multiple countries. This ensures that their innovative vehicles are legally protected across different markets, enhancing both competitiveness and brand value.

WIPO’s Role: Empowering Innovation and Enabling Sustainability

WIPO plays a crucial role in helping innovators like Microlino scale globally while protecting their creative work. For startups and SMEs, WIPO's international IP systems – like the Hague System for designs – provide essential tools for global growth, legal security, and market confidence.

Microlino’s journey showcases how visionary ideas, supported by smart design and strategic IP protection, can lead to global impact. It's not just the story of a micro car – it's a story of how thoughtful innovation, paired with the right legal tools, can drive sustainable and meaningful change.

Source: https://www.wipo.int/web/ip-advantage/w/stories/hague-system/microlino-an-electric-microcar-with-a-functional-design