As the current energy crisis (for lack of a better word) carries on, three wheel vehicles are continuing to make their existence known. The platform, which can be described as a cross between a motorcycle and a standard car, can be found as many concept vehicles such as the offering from Peugeot.  However, there are some vehicles that are available now, and their product is far from spartan.

The AutoMoto company (website - flash required ) has a nimble three wheel vehicle that packs a lot of style and sport in a (did I read that right?) $3800 package.  The Moto is powered by a high performance 150cc Honda designed GY6 engine, and an advanced flexible chassis allows it to take on the corners with its back wheels firmly planted yet leaning through the curve for maximum control.  The transmission is an automatic CVT design (continuously variable transmission), so it works to keep the power at the wheels at speed while the driver focuses on the ride without interruptions for gearing changes.  This has got to be a fun vehicle to drive.

The Auto Moto will not take up a lot of room in your garage, being roughly 7 foot long and 3 foot wide (standing about 6 foot high), yet it can carry a load in excess of 350 pounds.  You could probably fit 4 of the vehicles in place of a typical sedan.  Not bad for an alternative vehicle to have at your disposal. 

But the vehicle is not merely for kicks, since it does get an impressive 83 mpg on the road, with its 2.1 gallons of fuel capacity giving about 160 miles of cruising range.  And since it is a three wheeler only a standard drivers license is required to operate the vehicle.  This allows you to enjoy the more open experience of a motorcycle without having to get a license specific for one.  But the Auto Moto offers more perks than a motorcycle.

To start with, the Auto Moto is self standing and very easy to park (it could be argued that it would easier than either car or motorcycle).  You also have a full windshield and a roof, allowing for greater comfort in adverse weather conditions.  Then there is the comfortable leather seating and a generous locking trunk for when you are out running errands and doing shopping.   The ergonomics are designed to be user friendly, and with a seat height of only 2.5 foot, exiting and entering the vehicle should be a simple process for just about anyone.  While it is a tandem seat design, the rear passenger also gets comfortable arm rests, so they only have to relax and enjoy the trip (of course, a little leaning may be included in the trip, but that is expected).

The anti-lock brakes are controlled by both hand and foot, and a simple instrument pod  featuring charge, speed and fuel should make anyone familiar with motor vehicles feel more at home.  (although we think that the registered 140 mph might be a bit optimistic). And since the Auto Moto runs on 12 volts(the same as most full size cars), you can carry along your gear as you travel (but be sure to take advantage of the locking compartments,since after all there are no doors to lock).

The vehicle has an impressive standard feature set for its impressive price range, including such perks as turn signals on the side mirrors, metallic paint, two lockable glove boxes, alarm system, 4 speakers, a nice carbon fiber style dashboard, wide wheel upgrade, and finally a music control unit with a MP3 jack.  And if you have your heart set on a particular color, chances are you can get it, since there are more  than nine colors to choose from.

As I have said before, three wheel vehicles as alternative vehicles are starting to become more popular for the efficiency they offer, but they can also be fun.  I can imagine taking an Auto Moto out for a nice summer day, and feeling the breeze as we cruise through a nice park area.  But I can also see it as a handy errand runner, and with 83 miles to the gallon (along with a VERY nice price), the word practical certainly applies, as both a main vehicle and the fun alternative.

More Information: TheAutoMoto.com

(Thanks to John for the tip)