It is widely reported that the Union government is about to approve the sale of quadricycles for private use. Doing so should pave the way for a new segment of four-wheelers that should bridge the gap between motorcycles and cars. The Bajaj Qute, which is currently the only quadricycle available in India, is expected to spearhead the development of this category.
Also See - Bajaj Auto keen to supply Qute to Ola and Uber - Report
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a senior officer of the Road Transport and Highways ministry is reported to have said-
We will be issuing a notification in a day or two allowing the use of quadricycles for private use. Earlier, we had allowed them as a new transport category for commercial purpose. At present, it is available as a petrol-driven vehicle only.
As per the norms, the quadricycles for the passenger vehicle segment need to adhere to a weight limit of 475 kg. Furthermore, the vehicles will have to comply with crash protection and emission norms laid down by the Government and Automotive Research Association Of India (ARAI).
The Bajaj Qute, which is currently available as a commercial vehicle in pockets of the country, is powered by a 216 cc, single-cylinder, four-valve engine that has a closed loop fuel injection system. The motor outputs a maximum power of 13.2 PS along with a peak torque of 20 Nm. It comes paired with a 5-speed sequential gearbox. The country's first quadricycle can accommodate up to four occupants - three passengers and a driver.
Also See - Bajaj Auto keen to supply Qute to Ola and Uber - Report
The Bajaj Qute has a claimed fuel economy of 36 km/l and a top speed of 70 km/h. It is 2,752 mm long, 1,312 mm wide, 1,652 mm tall, and has a wheelbase of 1,925 mm. The quadricycle has a kerb weight of 399 kg and has a turning radius of 3.5 meters. It complies with the European Quadricycle norms and boasts European WVTA (Whole Vehicle Type Approval) certification from RDW Netherlands.
