During my travels to China, I’ve been struck by two contrasting spectacles on the streets. On one hand, there’s a vibrant scene dominated by electric cars<\/strong>, with an abundance of brands, models, and dealerships almost everywhere in urban centers. Counterbalancing this electric fervor, I noticed a significant presence of vehicles termed “laotoule”<\/strong>\u2014a category of quadricycles that can be operated without a driving license\u2014cluttering the roads and sidewalks.<\/p>\n Known endearingly as “laotoule,” which translates to “joy of the old man,” these vehicles originated from modifications of tuk-tuks in rural areas since the 1990s. While traditional light quadricycles in places like Spain are mainly driven by older individuals, laotoules cater to a broader demographic. These vehicles typically hold up to five passengers and come in a variety of styles. Although they initially served as convenience vehicles for running errands, they have now gained popularity among younger people as low-cost transportation solutions.<\/p>\n According to the China Electric Vehicle Association<\/strong>, the sales of these non-highway vehicles grew from 1.1 million in 2017 to 2.1 million in 2023<\/strong>, with a significant portion targeting senior citizens. Reports indicate that laotoules are flooding both rural roads and urban peripheries, raising alarm from local authorities regarding their safety and regulation.<\/p>\n Unlike regulations in Spain, where every motor vehicle must possess a technical sheet and a license plate, laotoules are often marketed as personal mobility devices. This has resulted in many being sold without registration or even the necessity of passing a vehicle inspection<\/strong>. They are increasingly available online, often mimicking luxury car designs but at remarkably lower prices.<\/p>\n The proliferation of laotoules extends to models that mimic high-end brands like Porsche<\/strong> and Maserati<\/strong>\u2014though they are not officially associated with these manufacturers. You can find models priced as low as \u20ac3,200<\/strong> on various e-commerce platforms. There are even versions that resemble the Xiaomi YU7, equipped with electric motors capable of reaching speeds up to 70 km\/h<\/strong>. <\/p>\n The most pressing issue associated with laotoules is road safety<\/strong>. While they might appear to be miniature cars, they lack vital safety features such as steel frames and airbags, putting their drivers and passengers at risk. A recent report highlighted a tragic incident involving a 59-year-old driver in Hebei who was fatally injured while driving a laotule.<\/p>\n In response to rising concerns, some local administrations are taking action. Beginning January 1, 2024<\/strong>, cities like Luoyang<\/strong> and Beijing<\/strong> will ban the circulation of low-speed three- and four-wheel electric vehicles on public roads. <\/p>\n However, a balanced approach may be necessary. China has begun to issue regulations specifying the technical specifications and safety requirements<\/strong> for electric vehicles, which will categorize laotoules as motor vehicles. As noted by Lu Yong<\/strong>, a researcher in the low-speed electric vehicle sector, there is a significant demand for these vehicles, requiring urgent attention to design and regulatory frameworks<\/strong> to ensure both industry development and traffic safety.<\/p>\n The surge of laotoules in China reflects a burgeoning demand for economical and versatile transportation. However, the lack of regulatory oversight poses a severe risk to road safety. If properly managed with stringent regulations and safety standards, laotoules may become a safer alternative in China’s evolving transportation landscape.<\/p>\nWhat is a Laotoule?<\/h3>\n
Increasing Popularity and Concerns<\/h3>\n
Legal Loopholes<\/h3>\n
Imitations of Luxury<\/h3>\n
Safety Risks<\/h3>\n
From Prohibition to Regulation<\/h3>\n
Conclusion<\/h3>\n