House makes move to open ‘autocycles’ to more drivers

Drivers of three-wheeled “autocycles” increasingly seen on Minnesota roads might be able to take to the road more easily.

The House on Thursday voted 129-1 to pass HF3014, sponsored by Rep. Dan Fabian (R-Roseau), which would allow motorists with a standard driver’s license to legally operate three-wheeled hybrid vehicles that have car-like seating, seatbelts and cabin space.

The bill now goes to the Senate, where Sen. LeRoy Stumpf (DFL-Plummer) is the sponsor.

Advocates say that requiring drivers of autocycles — despite their car-like features — to have a motorcycle endorsement on their driver’s license has acted as a barrier to entry, causing many to be unable to take even a test drive.

The bill would also make a number of conforming changes to state law and create a new category for autocycles within the state’s motorcycle classification.

According to manufacturers, the vehicles are drivable on all types of roadways and can maintain typical highway speeds.