Produced by Automobiles Chatenet, a French manufacturer founded in 1984. The firm specializes in voitures sans permis (cars without conventional driver-license requirements in some countries) and microcars.
The Stella is an older model (no longer in production) among Chatenet’s line-up. It’s considered a legacy/“historic” model now.
Key Specifications & Features
Here are some of the specifications of the Stella, especially in early variants (e.g. Stella 214):
Length / Size ~ 250 cm length, ~ 140 cm width, ~ 137 cm height
Weight (unladen) ~ 440 kg
Seats - Typically intended for 1 person in some versions. (Yes, just one!)
Engine / Power ~ 505 cc, 2 cylinders in line, Diesel. Power ~ 4 kW (≈ 5 HP)
Top Speed ~ 45 km/h (legally limited for many “voiture sans permis” / light quadricycle classifications)
Transmission Automatic / continuously variable in many versions.
Fuel / Emissions Diesel, with older emissions standards (Euro 2 in early models)
Legal / Use Implications
Because of its speed limit and classification, the Stella in many jurisdictions can be driven with a lighter class of license (or in some cases a moped-license) rather than a full car license. It depends heavily on the country’s rules for quadricycles légers / light quadricycles / voiture sans permis.
Insurance, registration, and usage cost tend to be lower. Maintenance is simpler given the modest mechanics. But being an older model, parts availability may be more limited.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros: Very compact — useful in city / tight spaces
Low speed / low power makes it safer for low speed traffic
Lower costs: fuel, licensing, insurance (depending on country)
Stylish / “cute” niche appeal; good if you want something quirky or unique
Cons: Very limited power / speed — not good for anything beyond very local driving
Comfort may be basic (minimal features)
Age & availability of parts could be an issue
Resale value could be low, obscure model for buyers