Anelectric trike is athree-wheeled vehicle powered by anelectric motor.

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While the normallegal definition of motorcycle is a two-wheeled vehicle, in the USA a motorcycle may also be three-wheeled.^[1] This classification does not depend on whether the operator is fully enclosed by a "cage" or exposed to the elements.^{[citation needed]}

Three-wheeled vehicles with one front wheel and two rear wheels are known as a delta design or the traditional trike (tricycle) design, while vehicles with two front wheels and one rear wheel are known as a tadpole design.

Electric trikes come in various styles, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for comfort, practicality, or performance, there’s an electric trike to match your lifestyle. Here are the main types of electric trikes:

1. Traditional Electric Trike A classic design that provides everyday comfort and stability. Perfect for general commuting and casual rides, these trikes offer a more upright riding position, making them ideal for those who prefer a familiar and straightforward cycling experience.
2. Recumbent Electric Trike Designed for those who prefer a laid-back riding experience. With a reclining seat, recumbent trikes offer reduced strain on the back and joints. They're ideal for long-distance riders and anyone seeking a more relaxed position while riding.
3. Folding Electric Trike Compact and space-saving, these trikes are ideal for urban living and travel. The ability to fold down makes them easy to store and transport, perfect for people who need a portable, convenient mobility solution.
4. Fat Tire Electric Trike Built for off-road adventures, these trikes come with larger tires for extra grip and stability. Ideal for riding on snow, sand, gravel, and rough terrain, fat tire trikes offer versatility for outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Cargo Electric Trike Perfect for hauling goods, groceries, or even children. These trikes come with extended cargo space or racks, making them great for deliveries or anyone needing extra capacity on their rides.
6. Reverse Electric Trike Featuring two wheels in the front for improved stability, reverse electric trikes offer excellent handling and balance. This configuration is often preferred for those who value safety and easy maneuverability.
7. Passenger Electric Trike These trikes are designed for carrying one or more passengers. They come with larger seating arrangements, enhanced safety features, and comfort, making them suitable for family rides or transporting passengers in urban environments.
8. Semi-recumbent Electric Trike A hybrid design combining features of both traditional and recumbent trikes. It offers a comfortable, relaxed riding position while maintaining some of the upright posture, ideal for those seeking a balance between comfort and a more active riding style.

Some three-wheeled electric vehicles, such as theTwike and theMyers Motors NmG, enclose the rider in a cabin or cockpit.^[2]

The electric tricycle, which combines the stability of a three-wheeled vehicle with electric propulsion, has a long history dating back to the late 19th century. The first electric tricycle was created in1881 by Gustave Trouvé in Paris, marking a pivotal moment in the development of electric mobility. This invention aimed to provide a cleaner, quieter alternative to steam-powered and early internal combustion vehicles, while offering improved stability over traditional bicycles.

Following Trouvé’s lead, other inventors and manufacturers began experimenting with electric trikes. In 1886, the Possons brothers of Cleveland, Ohio, built a similar vehicle in North America. The late 1800s saw various advancements, such as the development of electric motor technologies and battery systems, which helped make electric tricycles more practical.

By the late 19th century, the electric tricycle began to serve both personal and commercial uses, such as deliveries, highlighting its potential for urban mobility. Early models were often bulky due to the weight of the batteries, but the vehicles represented an innovative step in the evolution of electric vehicles. Despite their early promise, electric tricycles, along with electric cars, struggled to compete with the rise of gasoline-powered vehicles, which offered longer range and faster speeds.

In recent decades, advancements in battery technology and growing demand for sustainable transportation have led to a resurgence of electric tricycles, which are now widely used for personal transportation, delivery services, and accessibility solutions for seniors and people with disabilities.

• Electric vehicles
• Electric three-wheel vehicles
• Tricycles
• Micromobility

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