QUADRICYCLES

About:

• Features: A Quadricycle is a vehicle of the size of a 3-wheeler but with 4 tyres and fully covered like a car. It has an engine like that of a 3-wheeler.
  
  
• Benefits: All this makes it a cheap and safe mode of transport for last mile connectivity.
  
  
• In short, it’s a modern version of auto-
  
  

Recent decision:

• Quadricycles were only allowed for transport/commercial usage under the Act, but now they have been approved for personal use also.
  
  
• However, quadricycles will not be allowed for transporting cargo or luggage.
  
  
• Background: In June, the transport ministry headed approved the launch of quadricycles, which weigh less than 475 kg.
  
  
• Present status in India: Bajaj Auto Ltd’s Qute, the first locally produced quadricycle, had initially hit regulatory hurdles due to safety concerns. Others such as Tata Motors Ltd and Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd are also expected to launch similar products over the next couple of years.
  
  
• Impact on Market: Quadricycles may now pose a threat to entry-level cars like the Nano. Auto majors like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai will have to revamp their strategy given that quadricycles will be cheaper.