The ZET Electric Quadricycle Is A Clever & Compact Car Alternative For Urban Living

In cities where traffic, parking, and pollution are daily headaches, the ZET electric quadricycle offers a refreshing new take on mobility. Built by German company ZETmobil, this four-wheeled, pedal-assisted vehicle blends the best of e-bikes and cargo bikes into a modular, car-like form — minus the emissions, licensing hassle, or bulky footprint.

The ZET (short for Zero Emission Transportation) is essentially an electric cargo bike with four wheels and car-like stability. Unlike traditional bikes, it features a sturdy, low-to-the-ground chassis that supports multiple configurations: passenger transport, family rides, grocery hauling, or commercial delivery.

Crucially, it’s legally treated as a pedelec (pedal electric cycle), which means it typically doesn’t require a driver’s license, registration, or insurance in many parts of Europe, including Germany. With electric assist up to 25 km/h (15.5 mph), the ZET keeps you moving efficiently without breaking a sweat.

Models For Every Kind Of Urban User

ZETmobil offers a modular range of configurations to meet different needs:

• Urban 2-Seater: Designed for two adults, this model is perfect for commuting, carpooling, or just zipping around town together.
• Urban KidSeat: One adult plus a child seat with a four-point harness — great for parents doing the school run or weekend errands.
• Urban Pure: A single-seater with a rear cargo module that can be used for pets, groceries, or delivery gear.
• Transport Pure: The base platform, ready to be customized with different rear modules.
• Family: A covered cabin with seating for up to four children, weather protection, safety belts, and even storage — like a minivan, only greener.
• Box: Designed for serious cargo, this version holds up to 670 liters and 225 kg of payload, secured inside a lockable container.
• Pickup: An open-bed model with a foldable tailgate and adjustable loading area — perfect for small tradespeople or bulky items.

Why The ZET Is Turning Heads

The ZET isn’t just another attempt at an e-cargo bike, rather, it’s a potential car replacement. With weather protection (in some models), space for multiple passengers, and no fossil fuels involved, it’s aimed at families, delivery services, and city dwellers looking for a sustainable alternative to the car.

Its four-wheel platform provides more stability than a typical two- or three-wheeled cargo bike, especially when loaded. It’s narrow enough to ride in bike lanes, yet robust enough to carry everything from kids to crates of vegetables. And because it stays under the 25 km/h speed cap for pedelecs, it avoids the red tape that comes with scooters or microcars — at least in Germany and similar EU markets.

Pricing & Availability

Prices for the ZET start around €7,790 (~$9,088) for the entry-level Urban Pure model. That includes a battery offering up to 50 km of assisted range, depending on use and terrain. Higher-end models like the Box or Family variants cost more, topping out near €10,990 (~$12,817). Delivery is currently projected to begin in late 2025, with preorders open on the company’s website.

The Big Picture

With cities pushing for cleaner, quieter, and more space-efficient transport, the ZET hits a sweet spot: it offers the utility of a small car without the emissions or licensing hassle. While it’s not a highway vehicle, it could comfortably replace many short daily car trips, especially those involving school runs, deliveries, or urban errands. Find out more at ZETmobil.

All images courtesy of ZETmobil.