Let’s explore the fascinating history of Thai Tuk-Tuks! If you’ve never heard of them or want to know more, read on. In 2500 B.E. (1957 AD), Japan introduced three-wheeled trucks called Daihatsu Midget DK, with a 250cc engine, one headlight, and handlebars like a motorcycle, as a prototype for Thai Tuk-Tuks.
In 2503 B.E. (1960 AD), Thailand imported 30 Daihatsu Midget DK trucks from Japan, marking their first appearance. They were transported by ship and sold in areas around Yaowarat, Bangkok. These vehicles were nicknamed “Samlor Krueng” or “Three-Wheeled Machine.”
As Thailand’s economy improved, they imported the newer model, the Midget MP4, which had two doors and expanded distribution to Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya and Trang provinces. This model became the prototype for Tuk-Tuks that exist today in these regions. Subsequently, various other brands like Honda, Daihatsu, Hino, Mazda, and Mitsubishi entered the Thai market.
In 2515 B.E. (1972 AD), Japan ceased the production of Daihatsu Midget DK trucks, causing a scarcity of spare parts and leading to a thriving aftermarket for Tuk-Tuks.
Initially, Tuk-Tuks in Thailand came in various brands and cost almost 20,000 baht each. Today, they are mainly represented by Daihatsu and cost around 100,000 baht. Presently, only Daihatsu continues to manufacture Tuk-Tuks, and their design has evolved.
Tuk-Tuks initially had openings on both sides for passengers to board, but for safety reasons, the right side was closed off. They were widely used by various professions in Thailand.
The term “Tuk-Tuk”
is derived from the sound of the engine. Foreign tourists initially referred to these vehicles as “Tuk-Tuks,” and the name stuck.
The Evolution of Tuk Tuk (Three-Wheeled Vehicles) in Thailand:
Sidecar Taxis: In 2476 B.E. (1933 AD), the concept of “Sidecar Taxis” emerged, where a motorcycle was attached to a sidecar, allowing passengers to sit in the sidecar. These were primarily used in the southern region of Thailand.
Red Sidecar Taxis: To accommodate more passengers and travel longer distances, the sidecar taxis evolved into “Red Sidecar Taxis.” These vehicles had a motorcycle attached to a sidecar and became popular for hire in urban areas and marketplaces.
Two-Row Tuk-Tuks: To increase passenger capacity, two rows of seats were added at the back, allowing more passengers to travel at once. These were commonly found in local communities, at piers, and fresh markets.
Tuk-Tuks with Motorcycle Engines: During the “Sky Lab” space station era, Thai inventors adapted motorcycle engines to create Tuk-Tuks. These Tuk-Tuks had two rows of seats, were brightly decorated, and had a high front section.
Motorcycle-Pulled Sidecars: When motorcycle taxis became popular in Thailand, entrepreneurs started attaching sidecars to motorcycles, enabling them to carry more passengers. These were commonly known as “Gaew Nah” and offered vibrant and convenient urban transportation.
Motorbike-Trailer Tuk-Tuks: As motorcycle taxis became widespread, a new form of Tuk-Tuk emerged. It consisted of a motorcycle pulling a trailer with seats for passengers. These were commonly referred to as “Gai Na.”
These variations in three-wheeled vehicles reflect the creativity and adaptability of Thai transportation over the years.
For those interested in riding Thailand’s Tuk-Tuks, there’s no need to make reservations or call ahead. Tuk-Tuks are readily available in all major cities. Simply stand by the roadside, wait for a passing Tuk-Tuk, and wave your hand to signal it. When a Tuk-Tuk stops to pick you up, the most important thing is to negotiate the fare before getting on board. Once you’ve agreed on the price with the driver, then you can hop in. Be sure to haggle and settle on a fare that satisfies both parties. Otherwise, you might end up paying more than you should (in every city and country, there are both honest and not-so-honest people, so be cautious about fare negotiations). Enjoy your ride on Thailand’s fun and lively Tuk-Tuks!