Three Wheels United confronts the challenges faced by thousands of auto-rickshaw drivers in India while reducing CO2 emissions and air pollution.

Three Wheels United (TWU) is based on a three-pillar solution: fair loans to drivers enabling them to purchase their own auto-rickshaws, potential new marketing income streams and clean technology that lowers fuel costs and emissions.

Since their creation in 2010, Three Wheels United has over 700 registered drivers and have 120 new vehicles on the road.

Why you should care

There are an estimated 5 million rickshaws throughout India, and numbers are still growing: 2015 saw 50% year-on-year growth of rickshaw numbers. TWU provide a more secure way of life for drivers – they make drivers owners of their vehicles and encourage saving.

How the Global Goals are addressed

Good Health and Well-Being

The cleaner 4-stroke engines promoted by Three Wheels United emit 30% less emissions compared with traditional 2-stroke varieties, reducing air pollution and associated health problems in urbans areas.

Decent Work and Economic Growth

According to TWU, the solution increases the net earnings of drivers by over 70% from existing levels.