automotos

Automotos is a term used to describe a class of motor vehicles designed primarily for urban transport that blend features of motorcycles and cars. The designation lacks universal regulatory meaning and varies by country, but it is often used to refer to lightweight, enclosed, low- to mid-power vehicles that share two- or three-wheel chassis with either a single cabin or a small enclosed passenger space.

Common configurations include three-wheeled trikes or four-wheeled microcars with a compact footprint. Engines typically range from small motorcycle units (50–150 cc equivalents) to larger powerplants in the 200–800 cc category, with many models offering automatic transmissions for ease of use. Bodies tend to emphasize upright seating, good visibility, and urban maneuverability, with features such as doors, weather protection, and sometimes modular cargo space.

Market and regulation: definitions and licensing vary widely. Some jurisdictions classify automotos as motorcycles or motorized tricycles, requiring motorcycle licenses and helmet use; others treat them as light cars or quadricycles with different registration, safety standards, and highway access. Insurance, safety standards, and maintenance practices are similarly heterogeneous. The segment has seen sporadic interest in Europe, Asia, and the Americas as a solution for tight urban streets and parking constraints, often pitched on efficiency and lower operating costs.

History and usage: the concept draws on innovations in microcars, scooters with enclosed cabins, and three-wheeled urban vehicles. Production has been episodic, with small-scale manufacturers and pilots in regional markets.