Autocycle Safety Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Moolenaar, John R. [R-MI-2]
- Committees
- Energy and Commerce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 15, 2026
Bottom line
The bill creates a federal definition for autocycles and sets immediate, temporary safety standards while mandating the development of comprehensive, permanent regulations for this unique vehicle category.
What it actually does
This bill amends title 49 of the United States Code to define 'autocycle' as a three-wheeled motorcycle with front-wheel drive, a fully enclosed occupant compartment, and a steering wheel. It establishes interim federal motor vehicle safety standards for autocycles by requiring compliance with a mix of existing passenger car and motorcycle safety standards, along with specific equipment like airbags and anti-lock brakes. Furthermore, it mandates the Secretary of Transportation to issue final, tailored safety rules for autocycles within three years.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill is crucial for enhancing the safety of autocycle occupants and providing much-needed regulatory clarity for manufacturers. By establishing a clear definition and setting both interim and future-proof safety standards, the bill ensures that these vehicles meet appropriate safety benchmarks, fostering consumer confidence and promoting responsible innovation in a growing market segment.
Opponents contend
Critics might contend that the interim standards, which combine elements from passenger car and motorcycle regulations, could be either overly burdensome for manufacturers, potentially stifling a niche industry, or insufficient to address the unique safety challenges of autocycles. Concerns could also be raised about the three-year timeline for final rulemaking, suggesting it leaves consumers under potentially suboptimal regulations for too long.
The bill is concise and clearly structured, making it accessible for a quick and informed read by anyone interested in vehicle safety regulations.
Section 2(a)
Definition of 'Autocycle'
This provision formally adds 'autocycle' to the definitions section of title 49, United States Code. It defines an autocycle as a three-wheeled motorcycle with front-wheel drive, a fully enclosed occupant compartment, and a steering wheel. This classification makes autocycles subject to federal motor vehicle safety standards as determined by the Secretary of Transportation.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that a clear federal definition is essential for consistent regulation, ensuring that autocycles are recognized and treated appropriately under federal law, which is vital for both safety and market development.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against the definition itself, as it provides necessary clarity. Potential disagreements would arise from the implications of this definition for subsequent regulations.
Tradeoffs
The definition aims to strike a balance between classifying autocycles as a distinct category while acknowledging their motorcycle origins, which can influence the applicability of safety standards.
Section 2(b) (new Section 30114A(a))
Interim Safety Standards for Autocycles
This section establishes temporary safety standards for autocycles, effective immediately upon the bill's enactment and lasting until the Department of Transportation issues final rules. During this interim period, autocycles must comply with a specific combination of existing Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for passenger cars (e.g., controls, lamps, brakes, seating, crash protection, seat belts) and motorcycles (e.g., tires). Additionally, autocycles must meet certain upper interior impact criteria and be equipped with a steering wheel airbag, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
Section 2(b) (new Section 30114A(b))
Mandated Rulemaking for Permanent Safety Standards
This provision directs the Secretary of Transportation to issue final rules, interpretations, and test procedures for autocycle safety within three years of the bill's enactment. In developing these rules, the Secretary must apply appropriate motorcycle safety standards where relevant and passenger car safety standards where motorcycle standards are not suitable. The rulemaking process must also provide autocycle manufacturers with adequate lead time to comply with the new permanent safety standards.
The interim safety standards for autocycles are defined by referencing specific Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) by their numerical codes (e.g., FMVSS 101, FMVSS 108, FMVSS 135, etc.) rather than detailing the full requirements within the bill text.
Section 30114A(a)(1)-(3)
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice for incorporating existing regulatory frameworks. It avoids reprinting lengthy and complex regulations within the bill, making the bill itself more concise while relying on established legal texts.
Case for: This method ensures precision and consistency by directly linking to well-defined and understood safety standards, leveraging existing regulatory infrastructure and expertise without creating redundant text.
Case against: For the general public or those unfamiliar with federal vehicle safety regulations, these references make it difficult to immediately grasp the full scope and implications of the interim safety requirements without additional research.
Estimated impact: These specific FMVSS references directly dictate the design, performance, and safety features required for all autocycles manufactured and sold during the interim period, affecting all manufacturers and consumers in this market.