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Increased usage of quadricycles as an alternative to cars could prove grounds for a shake-up of their regulation, the Department for Transport (DfT) has announced.

Far tighter restrictions of quadricycle use could soon be in place, as its rising popularity as a viable, environmentally friendly substitute for more mainstream forms of road transport has prompted the DfT to review existing Europe-wide regulations.

So far it has found that, although quadricycles used in Britain do generally measure up to the safety standards set by the EU, they do not meet those established for cars, which is worrying given their growing presence on the UK's main roads.

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Roads minister Dr Stephen Ladyman explained that "given increasing environmental concerns, new vehicles that qualify as quadricycles have come to the market and are becoming more popular for urban use."

He continued: "Therefore, it is right that we reconsider the regulations for this type of vehicle and whether safety regulations should be made more stringent."

The DfT now intends to contact both the European Commission and major manufacturers in order to discuss its concerns and will also continue its tests before making any further announcements on this issue.

Under existing EU legislation, quadricycles are analysed on the efficiency of features such as their brakes, lighting and wheels, but unlike cars, they are not yet subject to occupant protection testing.

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