This particular style of vehicle goes by many names, known as an auto rickshaw in India and a tuk-tuk in Thailand, deriving from the loud two-stroke engines that traditionally powered them. Regardless of name, these three-wheeled taxis have been a staple for moving people around cities for many years. Now, electric drives are ushering in an exciting new era of rickshaws, enabling innovative new designs.
For example, take a look at this massive yellow electric bike I discovered while browsing Alibaba. It’s an entry in the “Awesomely Weird Alibaba Electric Vehicle of the Week” series and stands out due to its functional design!
Need to transport children around the neighborhood? This vehicle has you covered!
Heading out for grocery shopping? The spacious backseat can handle the groceries!
Are you or someone you know in need of a ride to the hospital? The rear seat can accommodate passengers comfortably!
With your very own electric rickshaw, you’ll be able to play the role of an open-air, eco-friendly neighborhood cab driver, fulfilling your dream!
Featuring “stylish and exquisite exterior styling,” fully-functional turn signals and headlights, and spacious front and rear seats accommodating up to six people at a time, this yellow electric bike stands out. However, the seating arrangement might pose a challenge in seating six people comfortably.
Powering the vehicle is a 1,000W motor mounted on the rear axle, powered by a 48V battery. While the battery capacity is not specified, the vendor claims a range of 70-90 km (43-55 miles), which should be sufficient for neighborhood operations.
With a top speed of approximately 35 km/h (22 mph), this electric rickshaw is not intended for major roads. Its design also makes it challenging to handle high-speed turns without tipping over.
Yet, the large-diameter bike-style wheels and fun bubble shell enhance the vehicle’s appeal, ensuring better maneuverability and reduced impact when tackling uneven terrains.
Though priced at $592, the vehicle comes with a couple of catches – most notably, the price likely doesn’t include batteries. Additionally, the $592 price applies when purchasing a minimum quantity of 100 units from the Chinese factory producing the rickshaw. However, the price drops to $400 per unit when buying just over half a billion units from the factory.
Thus, while owning a yellow e-bike tuk-tuk won’t happen soon without finding 99 friends to join in, the sight of a parade of 100 bubble trikes rolling past in all their bright yellow glory is indeed an appealing idea!
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