tuktuks

A tuk-tuk, also written tuk tuk, tuk-tuk, or tuktuk, is a three-wheeled motorized vehicle used as a taxi in many countries. They are compact and designed for short urban trips, with seating for two to four passengers and a driver seated at the front. Power sources range from gasoline or diesel engines to increasingly electric motors.

Design and operation: Typical configurations feature a single front wheel and two rear wheels and a small engine located behind the driver. Steering is usually via handlebars, though some models use a steering wheel. They are cheaper to operate than cars and can navigate narrow streets and heavy traffic.

Regional usage and variations: The vehicles are ubiquitous in South Asia under the name auto rickshaw; in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America they are known as tuk-tuks or motorized rickshaws. In Thailand the term tuk-tuk is common, while elsewhere drivers may refer to them as three-wheeler taxis or micro taxis. They serve on-demand transport, with fares either metered or negotiated.

Regulation and safety: Regulation varies by country and city. Some jurisdictions require vehicle inspections, driver licensing, and standardized fares; others operate informally. Safety features are generally basic, and protective structures and seat belts are not always present, though newer models may include basic safety equipment.

Economy and environment: Tuk-tuks provide affordable mobility and informal employment opportunities in crowded urban areas. They can contribute to traffic and air pollution, particularly in cities with older fleets. In recent years, electric tuk-tuks and hybrid models have emerged to reduce emissions and fuel costs, supported by public incentives or private investment.