what are those 3 wheel cars called

[Corbin]

Those three-wheeled vehicles are most commonly called three-wheelers or trikes. They fall into two main design categories: "tadpole" style (two wheels in front, one in back) and "delta" style (one wheel in front, two in back). This unique configuration often places them in a regulatory gray area between motorcycles and cars, which impacts licensing and insurance requirements.

The appeal of a modern three-wheeler often boils down to a specific driving experience. Many are designed to offer the open-air, visceral thrill of a motorcycle but with what some drivers feel is increased stability and a simpler, more affordable structure than a traditional four-wheel car. Several companies have brought innovative models to market in recent years.

Here’s a look at some prominent examples and their performance characteristics:

Model/Type	Top Speed (Approx.)	0-60 mph Time (Approx.)	Engine/Horsepower	Starting Price (Approx.)	Key Characteristics
Polaris Slingshot	125 mph	4.9 seconds	2.0L 4-cyl / 203 hp	$23,000	Tadpole layout, motorcycle-like handling, requires motorcycle license in most states.
Morgan 3-Wheeler	115 mph	6.0 seconds	2.0L V-twin / 82 hp	$50,000+	Retro-style delta layout, classic British roadster feel, premium hand-built construction.
Vanderhall Models	130 mph	4.5 seconds	1.5L Turbo / 194 hp	$30,000+	Tadpole layout, front-wheel drive, autocycle design (car-like controls in some states).
Can-Am Ryker	110 mph	6.5 seconds	600cc or 900cc Rotax / 47-82 hp	$9,000	Most affordable entry, delta layout, semi-automatic transmission, pure motorcycle controls.
Electra Meccanica Solo	80 mph	8.0 seconds	Electric / 82 hp	$18,500	Single-seat, fully enclosed delta EV, designed for efficiency and urban commuting.

Before considering a purchase, it's critical to check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) regulations. Many states classify tadpole models like the Slingshot as motorcycles, meaning you'll need a motorcycle endorsement on your license and may be required to wear a helmet. The driving experience is unique and not for everyone; a thorough test drive is highly recommended to see if you enjoy the distinctive, exhilarating, and exposed feeling of piloting a three-wheeler.

[JosiahAnn]

Oh, you mean a Slingshot! That’s the Polaris one I see around town. It’s like a go-kart mixed with a sports car but with three wheels. You sit low to the ground, it’s super loud, and you definitely need a helmet. My buddy has one—it’s a blast on sunny weekends, but you wouldn't want to drive it in the rain. They call them three-wheelers, but most folks just point and say, "Check out that Slingshot."

[AmyMarie]

From a technical standpoint, they're three-wheeled vehicles or trikes. The industry term you'll often hear is "autocycle" for models with car-like controls such as a steering wheel and foot pedals, which can simplify licensing in some states. The engineering focuses on a lightweight chassis for performance and efficiency. It's a niche market catering to drivers seeking a minimalist, high-impact experience distinct from both conventional cars and motorcycles.

[JacksonDella]

I’ve always been fascinated by the different designs. There are two main kinds. One looks like a car from the future with two wheels up front and one in the back—that’s a tadpole style, like the Polaris Slingshot. The other is the classic delta trike, with one wheel in front and two in back, which is what you see on older trikes or the cool Morgan 3-Wheeler. It’s not just one thing; it’s a whole category with its own styles and history.

[Naomi]

My advice is to first think about why you want one. If it's for pure, sunny-day fun and you're okay with the motorcycle license process, test drive a Polaris Slingshot. If you want something unique and eco-friendly for your daily commute, look into the all-electric Vanderhall Venice or the single-seat Electra Meccanica Solo. But the most important step is checking your local DMV rules—the licensing and helmet requirements vary wildly by state and can really impact how practical it is for you to own one.