Auto Moto's all-weather three-wheeler packs a wallop

(Credit: Auto Moto)

Three-wheel rides aren't big surprises here in Asia. Thailand has its Tuk-tuk, Southeast Asia its rickshaws or trishaws, the Philippines has its tricycles.

However, we're more familiar with these chariots as taxis for commuters. For personal transportation, the West, in the throes of economic recession, is turning increasingly toward affordable and more economical vehicles, particularly the three-wheel variant. While similar outings like Peugeot's HYmotion3 compressor concept vehicle look a lot yummier in the design department, the upcoming Auto Moto appears less intimidating and zippy enough to convert the scooter covey to the three-wheelies crowd.

The "rocker system" lets riders carve corners and take turns just like a two-wheeler, while keeping the rear wheels flat on the ground for stability.

(Credit: Auto Moto )

The vehicle has two major ticks in its checkbox: a bang-for-the-buck fuel system that coughs up 83mpg on the 150cc Honda-designed GY6 engine, and a full windshield and sunroof we've seen only in the two-wheeled Honda Gyro Canopy on Singapore roads, to keep out the elements.

This economical mule packs a surprising wallop in features for its size. For one, it unselfishly sits two in a tandem seat design that provides comfortable armrests for the rear passenger. There's also a lockable trunk for storage, four speakers with MP3 connection, and a carbon fiber-style dashboard that should be familiar enough with motorists.

For handling, the onboard Automatic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) gives optimal engine rpm, while a tilting "rocker system" offers enough traction for this scooter to take on corners and turns just like its bigger motorcycle cousin. The 2.1 gallons of fuel capacity is expected to provide about 160 miles of cruising range. And for a bit of personalization, you get a choice of nine colors to pick from.

The Auto Moto rolls out in the U.S. in early 2009.

(Via Crave Asia)

[mmntech]

This looks like one of those electric scooters the seniors in Wal-Mart try to run you down with.

[NoelFritz]

I saw one driving down the street in Los Angeles last week i thought i was dreaming for a second. Now i know what that was. I think its cool and if it gets 83mpg i don't see how this wont be a success. More auto makers should follow in the same direction and maybe LA wouldn't have so much traffic.....

[techbeee]

Wal-mart?? i don't even think there is one of those in Beverly hills where these guys are from..... But i think this company is on the right track with what's going on in the automotive industry right now. The key is to keep it cheap and affordable for the average person out there and i don't think it can get any cheaper than that. Major kudos points.

[gadgetreview]

My name is Christen da Costa and I run GadgetReview.com. We just went and reviewed the Automoto, a 3 wheeled scooter. We're the first (i.e. exclusive) to get our hands on the vehicle, which isn't even in the US yet. Check out the link which includes a video review.

http://www.gadgetreview.com/2009/03/gadget-review-the-automoto-3-wheeled-scooter-exclusive-video.html

[mmseptember]

I purchased my automoto February 19, 2009. It is still sitting on a ship in China in a container. The boat has to get full for it to ship. So could you all that want one please buy one so I can get mine to the states.

[rogwild]

The 'Auto Moto' (by other names) has been around in Europe (a few years) and the US for a year or two. It is a Xingyue (Shin Yee) XY150ZK-B Vogue Scooter. I bought one last summer, a fun little scooter that 'tops out' about 50mph and 'sips' gas. I haven't gotten 80mpg yet, but pretty close. Great for running errands with the rear trunk (passenger seat can hold a duffel bag for extra storage. Definitely an 'attention getter'!