Auto
Mahindra Three‑Wheeler Drives Through London, Sparks Social Media Buzz
Industrialist Anand Mahindra posted a viral video of a three‑wheeler moving through central London streets. The clip, likely featuring a Mahindra Treo model, shows the vehicle navigating among cars and cabs while Gujarati text on screen reads, “UK ma riksha aavi gai chhe… Mahindra ni chhe, aapda,” which translates to, “Look, a Mahindra rickshaw is now in the UK — and it’s one of ours!” The sight of the Indian three‑wheeler on British roads has prompted amused and proud reactions on social media, with many users celebrating what they call a “reverse colonisation.” Comments ranged from jokes about an auto driver in London rain to praise for the automaker’s global reach. Some users suggested a modern redesign for the rickshaw.
Mahindra & Mahindra has been exporting its electric three‑wheelers to the UK since at least late 2021 and early 2022. The vehicles are sold through local dealerships such as the Cheshire‑based Tuk Tuk (UK) Ltd, known as The Tuk Shop. Exported EVs are used for niche roles rather than traditional taxis. The cargo‑focused Mahindra Treo Zor is increasingly adopted by small businesses for eco‑friendly last‑mile deliveries, while the passenger‑oriented Treo is popular for promotional activities, hospitality transport, and recreational trips. In October 2022, the Gwent Police in Wales added a Mahindra Treo to their fleet, according to The Times of India. In December 2021, Anand Mahindra congratulated the first UK buyers who received their vehicles from The Tuk Shop, noting that they had “seen the future and it’s electric and three‑wheeled.”