Government Proposes Draft Rules for Convertible Two-Wheeler and Three-Wheeler Vehicles

Key Highlights:
•    A new "L2-5" category will be introduced by the Indian government for urban mobility.
•    Proposed rules allow two-wheelers to transform into three-wheelers.
•    The design lets the scooter switch between solo and combined modes.
•    Useful for ride-sharing and delivering goods in tight spaces.
•    One registration number covers both configurations for ease.

The government is introducing new rules for a special kind of vehicle called the convertible two-wheeler and three-wheeler. These vehicles, known as "L2-5," can switch between being a scooter and a three-wheeler. 

This means you can change your ride depending on what you need. It's a big step towards making transportation more convenient and flexible, especially in busy cities. With these new rules, people can expect easier and more adaptable ways to get around town.

Draft rules to amend the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, have been issued to pave the way for convertible two-wheeler and three-wheelers vehicles, introducing a category known as "L2-5."

According to a recent notification from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, a "Category ‘L2-5’" vehicle refers to a three-wheeled motor vehicle with a unique 2 wheeler-3 wheeler combination module. 

This innovative design allows for seamless conversion between a two-wheeled scooter and a three-wheeled vehicle, catering to diverse user requirements.

The notification specifies that a vehicle falling under the L2-5 category is constructed to combine a two-wheeler of category L2 with a non-self-propelled rear module unit. This module can be separated or combined as needed. 

Crucially, at any given time, the two-wheeler (Category L2) or the three-wheeled vehicle (Category L5) mode can be utilized, ensuring user safety and compliance with regulations.

What is the L2-5 category?

The proposed “L2-5” category refers to a three-wheeled motor vehicle equipped with a 2-wheeler-3-wheeler combination module. Here’s how it works:

•    Imagine a rickshaw-like structure without a front wheel.
•    A scooter slots into this structure, acting as the front wheel.
•    In this combined form, the rear wheel of the scooter rests on the rickshaw platform, lifting it off the ground.
•    The beauty lies in its flexibility: the scooter can be decoupled and used independently.

Use Cases and Benefits:

•    Versatility: A convertible two-wheeler and three-wheeler vehicle allows users to switch between different scenarios such as ride-sharing, last-mile delivery, and personal mobility.
•    Powertrain Safety: Only one vehicle is functional at a time, ensuring the other vehicle’s powertrain remains non-functional for user safety.
•    Single registration: For vehicles categorized as L2-5, a single registration number is assigned to encompass both segregated two-wheeled (L2 category) and combined three-wheeled (L5 category) configurations.

Also Read: Hero MotoCorp's Surge unveils game-changing S32 EV: 3-wheeler to scooter transformation in 3 minutes!

This move follows the unveiling of similar innovative vehicles by companies like Surge, a startup owned by Hero MotoCorp. Surge recently showcased the Surge S32, an electric three-wheeler capable of transforming into a two-wheeler within three minutes. 

The S32 features a unique rickshaw-like structure into which a scooter can be inserted, effectively converting it into a front wheel. The scooter can also be detached and used independently.

In these vehicles, each configuration operates on its respective powertrain, with only one mode functional at a time for user safety.

The draft notification also introduces distinctions within the L2-5 category based on usage: "Category L2 – 5 M" for passenger transport and "Category L2 – 5 N" for goods transport. 

Additionally, a single registration number will be assigned for both configurations, whether it's the separated two-wheeled vehicle (L2 category) or the combined three-wheeled vehicle (L5 category), streamlining the registration process for these innovative vehicles.

CMV360 Says

The government's proposal for convertible two-wheeler and three-wheeler vehicles marks a significant advancement in urban mobility solutions. 

The introduction of the "L2-5" category demonstrates a commitment to innovation and flexibility in transportation. These vehicles offer users the convenience of seamlessly switching between solo and combined modes, catering to diverse needs such as ride-sharing, delivery services, and personal mobility.