autoriks

Autoriks are a class of small, motorized three-wheeled vehicles designed primarily as taxis and personal transport. They typically seat two to three passengers in a small, enclosed cabin behind the driver's stand, with the driver in front or on a side. The front wheel is steered with handlebars, and power is usually provided by a small internal combustion engine or electric motor.

They are widely used in South Asia—India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka—and in many other regions, including parts of Africa and Latin America. In different countries they are known as autorickshaws, tuk-tuks, or tricycles. The vehicles are valued for compact size, maneuverability, and low operating costs, making them a common choice for short urban trips and last-mile connections to buses and trains. They are typically operated by individual drivers or small fleets, with regulation often determined by permits, licenses, and fare controls.

Environmental and safety concerns persist, including emissions from two-stroke engines in older models and limited occupant protection. This has spurred modernization, such as adherence to emission standards and the rapid expansion of electric autoricks in many cities. As affordable mobility options, autoriks continue to play a central role in urban transport networks where road space is dense and traffic conditions favor small, nimble vehicles.