Erad (France) - AllCarIndex

Erad, officially known as Etudes et Realisations du Douaisis, was a French manufacturer of microcars based in Aniche. The company operated from 1975 until 1997 and became one of the longest-lived producers of microcars in France, with total sales exceeding 30,000 units, including around 800 electric vehicles.

The company's first model, the Capucine, featured a plastic body and was equipped with a 47cc Sachs engine, along with MacPherson strut front suspension. In 1981, Erad expanded its offerings by introducing a 290cc Farymann diesel engine and a 123cc BCB petrol engine. Among its notable models was the Midget, launched in 1982, which was a compact replica of the 1936 MG Midget, measuring only 9 feet (270 cm) in length and powered by either a 125cc petrol or a 600cc diesel engine.

In 1984, the Capucine underwent a redesign and was made available in both convertible and four-seater variants. The company introduced a budget model called the Junior in 1988, which was marketed as the cheapest new car in France at the time, priced at 35,000 francs. This model featured a unique flop-forward canopy for easier entry. The 1990 Spacia, a 'monobox' design reminiscent of a miniature Renault Espace, was notable for being powered by diesel engines up to 505cc or an electric motor, making it the first electric microcar to successfully pass full European Community crash tests.

Another significant model was the Agora, released in 1993, which was characterized as an ultra-basic two-seater with a canvas roof, and was described by Erad as a "2CV for the year 2000." Despite its innovative designs and contributions to the microcar segment, Erad ceased operations in 1997, although its products were later revived by SAVEL.