Messerschmitt Kabinenroller
KR201 Roadster
FACTS
1953-1964
CONSTRUCTION YEAR
WILLY MESSERSCHMITT
& FRITZ FEND
Sachs
1 cylinder
2-stroke
191 CCM
9.5 hp
ENGINE
300
DESIGNERS
NUMBER OF PIECES
1959
GERMANY
ZULASSUNG
STORY
The Messerschmitt Kabinenroller is a compact micro-vehicle that offers space for two people and stands out due to its characteristic design with a narrow, covered cabin.
It was originally developed as a cost-effective mobility solution and combines elements of a motorcycle with those of a small car .
The vehicle was produced by the Messerschmitt company from 1 953 to 1956 , before production was taken over by Fahrzeug- und Maschinenbau GmbH (FMR) from 1956 to 1964. The prototype of the cabin scooter was developed in 1952 by Willy Messerschmitt and Fritz Fend and presented at the Geneva Motor Show in early 1953 as the KR 175.
The cabin scooter impresses with its unique design with the narrow cockpit, which is reminiscent of an airplane .
The design and concept were strongly influenced by Willy Messerschmitt's aviation past , which also contributed to the name "Kabinenroller" .
Especially in the period after the Second World War, when cheap and efficient mobility was in demand, the cabin scooter was a very popular option.
Fritz Fend was a German engineer and designer who became known for the development of small, lightweight vehicles. He designed the Kabinenroller together with the support of Willy Messerschmitt, who was best known for his aircraft developments.
PERSONAL STORY
The Messerschmitt KR 201 Roadster presented here not only embodies a part of automotive history, but also a piece of living craftsmanship and passion.
This extraordinary vehicle was extensively restored by the specialist Oliver Herbolzheimer in Oldenburg, with the greatest emphasis being placed on authenticity and attention to detail.
During the extensive restoration, the KR 201 received an original Python imitation seat system from a Tiger Roadster TG 500 – a special model series from Messerschmitt that is the only vehicle of the brand to be equipped with four wheels.
Particularly worth mentioning is the adjustable backrest of the driver's seat , which was also taken from the TG 500.
This feature was innovative at the time and still offers the driver an unexpected level of comfort that seems almost luxurious in the context of the cabin scooter's minimalist design.