A story from the AP says, the nascent movement to promote the small, cheap vehicles, long popular in China and India, has been stalled in Ohio _ albeit unintentionally. Three-wheelers aren't allowed on the roads because they lack a specific designation: They don't classify as motorcycles because they lack a saddle, and they can't be termed automobiles because they don't satisfy federal safety regulations.

Gov. Ted Strickland is expected to sign a bill next week that enables three-wheeled vehicles that have seats to be classified as motorcycles. The new law will take effect in September.

Gas-powered versions of three-wheelers cost about $10,000 and get roughly 45 miles per gallon. Priced at approximately $35,000 each, the electric versions are more expensive and can run for about 30 miles on a single charge.

Unlike motorcycles, the vehicles have an enclosed cockpit and can seat up to four people. Under the law, drivers will have to wear a helmet for the first year and pass a motorcycle skills test.

For more information on the cars, click here and here.

Click here to read more of this story from the AP.