A new categorization for convertible two- and three-wheeler vehicles has been proposed by the government, opening the door for creative mobility options. The Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 are being amended draught-wise to add a new category called “L2-5.” These include three-wheeled vehicles that can be converted into scooters and vice versa based on user needs. A three-wheeled motor vehicle with a 2-wheeler-3-wheeler combo module is specifically referred to as a “L2-5” category motor vehicle. This design enables the combination of a non-self-propelled rear module unit and a two-wheeled vehicle of category L2, which can be divided or united as required. The vehicle can operate as a Category L2 two-wheeler or a Category L5 three-wheeler at any given time.
The Surge S32, a vehicle developed by Hero MotoCorp-owned startup Surge, is an illustration of this cutting-edge vehicle type. In just three minutes, the electric three-wheeler S32 may be transformed into an electric two-wheeler. It has a structure that resembles a rickshaw without a front wheel, into which a scooter may be slid to serve as the wheel. This setup enables the scooter to be detached and operated independently by raising the rear wheel off the ground and resting it on the rickshaw platform.
Vehicles with convertible two- and three-wheelers give consumers the freedom to transition between various use cases, including last-mile delivery, ride-sharing, and personal mobility. For user and vehicle safety, only one vehicle is operational at a time in the three-wheeler and two-wheeler versions, which run on separate powertrains.
The draft notification further clarifies that a category L2-5 vehicle intended for passenger transport is referred to as “Category L2 – 5 M,” while a category L2-5 vehicle intended for carrying goods is referred to as “Category L2 – 5 N.” When it comes to cars in the L2-5 category, a single registration number will be given for both types of configurations: the L2 category’s divided two-wheeled vehicle and the L5 category’s combined three-wheeled vehicle.
