London to Delhi by auto-rickshaw

[haven]

http://in.reuters.com/article/2011/09/23/idINIndia-59505920110923

Sanjay Sharma recently completed a 10,200 km journey in a Bajaj auto-rickshaw, driving from Nottingham, England to Delhi, India. The goal was to raise money for cancer research.

The rickshaw, named the "Flying Rani," was modified for the journey. To prepare for the trip, upgraded brakes, half-doors, more comfortable seats and a GPS receiver were added. A cargo box was fastened to the roof to carry clothing and gear.

The vehicle caused a sensation wherever Sharma and his companions went. The trip took 3 months to complete. The rickshaw, which is powered by a 175cc engine, suffered just one mechanical problem: A flat tire.

 

[haven]

The auto-rickshaw is a common sight in east, southeast and south Asia. The vehicle has many names, including three-wheeler, tuk-tuk, trishaw, tricycle, and mototaxi. Powered by two-stroke scooter motors, they are a major source of pollution in urban areas. Many cities have passed ordinances requiring that the two-stroke gasoline engines be converted to burn compressed natural gas instead.

The original 3-wheeler scooter is generally credited to be the Piaggio Ape (pronounced Ahpp-ay), an Italian design from 1948 that can still be found in use today.

In parts of Asia, the three-wheeler is being replaced by small motorcycles equipped with sidecars.

 

[clcoyle]

Wow. What an amazing adventure in such an unconventional vehicle.

Interesting read.

 

[taco2go]

The auto-rickshaw is a common sight in east, southeast and south Asia. The vehicle has many names, including three-wheeler, tuk-tuk, trishaw, tricycle, and mototaxi.

Thanks for the link- definitely an unconventional vehicle and adventure.

The "auto" as it's most commonly called is definitely the most ubiquitous overlander in India

Unrivaled as the common man's taxi, it's also featured in Bollywood movies and popular youtube sensation videos.
Here's a basic overview of the newest Ape provided by the always informative Wilbur Surgunaraj.


If he proved understandable, watch the subsequent video that features this iconic vehicle. :sombrero: