Biscuter (Spain) - AllCarIndex

Biscuter was a Spanish microcar brand produced by Autonacional SA, based in Barcelona, from 1953 to 1960. The brand originated from a design by French engineer Gabriel Voisin, who introduced the Biscooter at the 1950 Paris Salon. Although the initial reception was lukewarm, a license was granted to Autonacional to manufacture the vehicle in Spain. The production model, renamed Biscuter, was based on one of Voisin's prototypes and featured a more developed body design.

The Biscuter was characterized by its lightweight construction, utilizing an aluminum monocoque chassis, a hallmark of Voisin's designs. It was powered by a 197cc Hispano Villiers single-cylinder engine, producing 9 horsepower, and was capable of reaching a top speed of 48 mph (76 km/h). The vehicle was notable for its fuel efficiency, achieving approximately 57 miles per gallon. The first production cars were launched in June 1953, with the basic model being an open two-seater that became a popular form of urban transport in Spain.

As production progressed, Biscuter expanded its lineup to include various body styles, such as the 200R (open two-seater), 200C (four-seater estate), and 200F (coupé). An extended-wheelbase prototype designed by Voisin was also developed in 1955 but never went into production. By the time production ceased in 1960, between 15,000 and 20,000 units had been sold, marking Biscuter as one of the most successful microcar manufacturers of its time. Plans for production in other countries, including India, Morocco, Israel, Ireland, and Argentina, were also considered.

In 1984, an attempt was made to revive the Biscuter brand with a modern design called the Biscuter 2000, featuring angular, doorless bodywork. However, financial constraints ultimately prevented the vehicle from entering production.