The rickshaw derives its name from the Japanese word “jinrikisha”, literally translating to human-powered rickshaw. Over the past century, the rickshaw has seen various transformations, from hand-pulled to cycle rickshaws to motor-assisted rickshaws; however, these transformations have been unable to replace the human effort required in operating the rickshaw while maintaining an eco-friendly environment. In case of total passenger transportation, almost 75-80% of the load is shared by road transport sector. In India, the road share of passenger mobility has increased from 35% to 85% in the last 6 decades. This sector consists of both motorized (powered by internal combustion engines or by electric motors) and non-motorized modes (cycle& hand pulled rickshaws).

E rickshaw provides LMC (Last Mile Connectivity) to the people and has an enormous potential to reduce the carbon foot-print. Battery operated electric three-wheelers or E rickshaws have recently emerged in the public road transport sector in India. These vehicles have gained much popularity owing to the comfortable and economic mode of transport they provide to the fellow commuters.

The human effort was completely eradicated in Auto-rickshaws. They are Available in three variants- LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas), CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) and Diesel; these operate in major urban areas, townships and suburbs. These auto rickshaws have specific routes of operation recognized by the union bodies and the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) of the region. With a carrying capacity of three passengers these vehicles are provided with proper registration from the RTAs and are required to pay road taxes. The drivers of these vehicles require proper license for driving. These vehicles have a maximum speed of 60 km/h and the fuel tank capacity varies from 15 litres to 20 litres depending on the vehicle model.