The Future of Tuk-Tuk

I would now like to look ahead and try to imagine what the future may have in store for the tuk-tuk. Many in the field envision something of this sort for tuk-tuking in the late 21st century.

Upon arrival at the recently finished Suvarnabhumi Airport in Samut Prakan, Thailand – holiday makers will be whisked away to the destination of their choice. Be it Pattaya, Chiang Mai – or in the case above – Phuket, nothing will be out of reach for the “Rocket Tuk-Tuk.” Now, naturally, due to the increased fuel consumption of the above jet propulsion system that will systematically replace the widespread Diahatsu 550, 650cc 4-stroke engine, passenger prices will be a bit higher than in the past. But, oh, will the ride be so much more exciting.

It is reportedly rumored that Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has given the green light for a 1-billion baht research and development project on the design and manufacture of the “Rocket Tuk-Tuk,” and has been on the record as stating that: development of the ‘Rocket Tuk-Tuk’ is essential to keeping Thailand ahead of its Asian counterparts in the tourist industry for generations to come.

On his recent weekly radio show, Sondhi Limthong made corruption allegation charges against Thaksin with respect to the above, claiming the Prime Minister had placed numerous patents and newly acquired research contracts for the machine into the name of his pet dog Fifi. Any validity to the allegations has yet to be determined. In addition, what will be done to the millions of currently existing conventional tuk-tuks, and whether or not the average low-class Thai farmer will be able to afford a ride on the "Rocket Tuk-Tuk" to the local 7-11, are also arguments addressed by critics of the plan.