Lao Tou Le, literally meaning “joy for the elderly,” refers to a type of slow-speed, unlicensed electric vehicle with three or four wheels, that’s widely produced in China. With prices ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 RMB (approximately $394 to $657 USD), these vehicles are an affordable alternative to traditional automobiles. Their compact size makes them easier to maneuver, safer for inexperienced drivers, and more fuel-efficient.
Recently, a new demographic has emerged in this market: full-time mothers in China’s smaller cities and towns. Many of these women are responsible for managing household affairs while their husbands work in larger cities for higher wages. Their children are still in school, and their elderly parents and in-laws often reside in their hometowns. As a result, these mothers have found Lao Tou Le to be an essential tool for their daily mobility needs.
Beyond husband-to-work runs, these women have also embraced Lao Tou Le as a canvas for self-expression. They’ve gone full Xzibit mode in pimping out their rides. Since the standard model comes with a semi-enclosed design, one of the most common modifications involves hand-knitting tarps for added coverage. Some even generate extra income by making and selling these custom tarps. Within their tricked out whips, mothers have created personalized spaces adorned with LED lights, fluffy toys, tents, and veils, transforming them into cozy mobile havens that their children can also share with friends.
Despite its growing popularity, Lao Tou Le has faced regulatory challenges. Due to its low speed and lack of formal licensing, the vehicle has been banned in several cities and is still prohibited on highways and major provincial roads. However, economic constraints and financial prudence continue to make it an attractive choice for many mothers. In an interview with Mei Ri Ren Wu, one woman shared how she follows RV renovation bloggers to modify her Lao Tou Le, using it as a small escape toward her dream lifestyle.
The resurgence of Lao Tou Le also reflects broader economic shifts in China. Unexpectedly, it has also started gaining traction in Europe. Following the EU’s ban on the sale of new gasoline-powered cars by 2035, Lao Tou Le has emerged as a viable option among electric vehicles. Interestingly, its primary customer base in Europe consists of teenagers seeking an independent mode of transportation for commuting to school.
With its practical design and affordability, Lao Tou Le is no longer just a source of joy for the elderly—it is now embraced by young mothers, teenagers, and a growing global audience. Check out the “welcome to my crib” style compilation video of these blinged Lao Tou Le’s below, and discover more of what’s happening on the electric vehicles in China front here.
