The Renault Twizy is an urban 2 seat electric car. European standards classify it as a motorized quadricycle. Fifteen thousand have been sold as of April 2015. Europe is the main markets. They are not certified for road use in the USA but many are sold to people that have golf carts and similar vehicles being used in their community.
Things we know about the Spyder...
The Rotax 1330 ACE engine is an in-line triple-cylinder configuration for maximum torque in every gear, to deliver excellent roll-on acceleration and throttle response. It’s also efficient, with the ability to ride up to 252 miles (406 km) on a single tank*. Plus, it’s extremely low maintenance.
These popular four wheel motorized cycles are widely used on highways and roads. They are mostly covered or have a standard enclosure like a passanger car or small truck. Economy is important since energy prices are a factor. These small efficient vehicles are practical and solve transportation issues for many people.
Many have enclosed lightweight bodies, much like automobiles. Some are simple and others are luxurious. They have all the safety features such as head and tail lights. Many people in the younger generation are buying and using these vehicles daily.
Motorized Cycles are becoming common in many countries. In those countries they are the least expensive and most widespread forms of motorized transport. It is also a means of reducing the effects of urban congestion and pollution.While the reasons for people choosing to ride smaller vehicles like these are many and varied, those reasons are increasingly practical.
The first motorized quadricycles were called "horseless carriages". In 1895 a newspaper contest resulted in the name "Moto Cycle" meaning "moving rapidity (moto) on a cycle". In 1898 "Modern Machinery" magazine had an article about the Moto Cycle. During the era before mass production many small shops built a lot of custom variiations. Some became popular and were produced in small numbers for sale to the public.