We drove a $24,000 Smart car and a $15,000 electric 3-wheeler to see which tiny vehicle we liked better — here’s the verdict

It’s a fun, fun, fun, eye-catching machine.

Drivingwise, the 0-60 mph dash passes in 8 seconds. OK, that’s not crazy fast, but it happens in a very small vehicle that has electric-car torque, so you feel the pop.

I can’t vouch for safety or reliability, but Electra Meccanica says that the Solo has been rigorously tested, and the top speed is 82 mph, so taking it to the freeway is possible. The ride isn’t exactly plush, but darting in and out of traffic is enjoyable, and parking the Solo would be perpetually satisfying. So I can make a case for ownership, but at this point it’s narrow. However, with most electric vehicles going on sale for over $40,000, it’s cool to see a company offering a more basic idea.

If you like to ride motorcycles but are aging out of it, you can find some of the same fun with the Solo. And the cargo capacity, while limited, is good enough for runs to the grocery store.

Apart from the ride, the brakes take some getting used to. I found myself programming my brain to prepare for a stop a bit earlier than usual. Larger adults might also struggle with the seat, although I think anybody six feet and under would be A-OK.

Electra Meccanica is promoting the Solo as being cheap to maintain, and I suspect it will be: it doesn’t have a lot of components, the drivetrain is simple, and the tires should be inexpensive to replace.

The company is taking $250 refundable reservation to build the Solo for delivery. Yes, it’s offbeat. Yes, if you drive around a city or town, you’ll be mobbed. Children will point. Adults will ask questions. You’ll become a sort of small-time celebrity. And if that plus driving the smallest thing on three wheels doesn’t trouble you, then the Electra Meccanica Solo might be your ticket.