Powered tricycles on the fast road to global success

Electric evolution

As environmental concerns rise, electric three-wheelers, offering energy-efficient and low-carbon transportation, have gradually gained in global popularity.

Luoyang North Enterprises Group, a leading state-owned motorcycle manufacturer in Yanshi, saw foreign trade orders for its two three-wheeler brands exceed 10,000 units in May, up 59 percent year-on-year and a record for the company.

Among these are electric passenger three-wheelers set for export to African countries. Unlike regular three-wheelers, these fully enclosed passenger vehicles are equipped with small fans and hand grips, and are akin to "taxis" in Africa, said Li Bin, the company's deputy marketing director.

"These customized electric three-wheelers are cost-effective and serve as off-grid new energy vehicles in Africa. After the power is exhausted, owners can replace the batteries at swap stations. They provide convenient transportation, and the locals welcome them," Li said.

Like many Yanshi companies, the group plans to establish overseas warehouses, processing plants, and direct-sale stores in the next three years.

Li believes the tricycles' international success is due to China's growing influence and the product's suitability for many developing regions.

He added that the increasing popularity of electric three-wheelers aligns with the global trend toward low-carbon development.

"Developing new products tailored to specific needs, optimizing existing ones, improving sales policies and services while deeply understanding target markets is essential for Chinese three-wheeler manufacturers to expand overseas successfully," he said.