New L2-5 category for convertible 2/3 wheelers proposed

Paving the way for a new category of convertible two-wheeler and three-wheeler vehicles, the government has issued draft rules to amend the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. This is in order to introduce a category of three-wheeled vehicles with a two-wheeler, three-wheeler combination module known as “L2-5.” A convertible two-wheeler and three-wheeler vehicle is a three-wheeled model, which can be converted into a scooter and vice versa, as per user requirements. 

1. Surge S32 currently only such Indian product
2. Can be used as a rickshaw, small tempo or e-scooter

“The ‘L2-5’ is constructed in such a way that a two-wheeled vehicle of category L2 is combined with a non-self-propelled rear module unit. It can be separated or combined as and when required; at any point in time, either a two-wheeler of Category L2 or a three-wheeled vehicle of Category L5 can only be used,” according to a notification issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways last week.

In January, Hero MotoCorp-owned startup Surge showcased a similar product named Surge S32. It is an electric three-wheeler that can be converted into an electric two-wheeler in just three minutes. S32 comes with a rickshaw-like structure without a front wheel, into which a scooter slots and acts as the front wheel. In this form, the rear wheel of the scooter is off the ground and rests on the rickshaw platform. The scooter can also be decoupled and used by itself.

A convertible two-wheeler and three-wheeler vehicle allows customers to switch between different use cases such as ride-sharing, last-mile delivery and personal mobility as per the requirement. In such vehicles, the three-wheelers and two-wheelers run on their respective powertrains in their respective form. Only one vehicle is functional at a time making the other vehicle’s powertrain non-functional for user and vehicle safety.

The draft notification noted that: “Category L2 – 5 M” means a category L2-5 vehicle on account of its technical features intended to carry passengers; Category L2 – 5 N” means a category L2-5 vehicle on account of its technical features intended to carry goods.” In the case of the L2-5 category of vehicles, a single registration number shall be allotted for both configurations – the separated two-wheeled vehicles of the L2 category or combined three-wheeled vehicles of the L5 category. 

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