Vehicle exhibits

The Messerschmitt KR200, also known as the Kabinenroller (German for “cabin scooter”), was a distinctive three-wheeled microcar designed by aircraft engineer Fritz Fend. The KR200 evolved from Fend’s earlier KR175 model and was introduced in 1955. It featured tandem seating, a streamlined body, and a cockpit-style Plexiglas bubble canopy—giving it a striking, aircraft-inspired appearance.

Powered by a 191 cc Fichtel & Sachs two-stroke engine, the KR200 could reach speeds of up to 100 km/h. A unique feature was its reverse gear, achieved by reversing the direction of the engine. The earlier KR175 lacked this feature, requiring drivers to physically push the vehicle backwards.

Originally, these vehicles were produced by Messerschmitt AG, a company famous for manufacturing fighter planes such as the Bf 109 during World War II. After the war, Messerschmitt turned to manufacturing civilian products due to restrictions on aircraft production. However, in 1956, the company resumed aircraft manufacturing and sold the microcar operation to Fritz Fend. Fend partnered with brake and hub supplier Valentin Knott to form a new company, Fahrzeug- und Maschinenbau GmbH Regensburg (FMR), which continued producing the KR200 and other small vehicles until 1964.

Although often still referred to as “Messerschmitts,” vehicles produced after 1956—including this 1960 KR200—were built by FMR. Their design legacy and aviation roots have made them iconic examples of post-war European microcars.