TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present subject matter, in general, relates to a vehicle and in particular, relates to a portable vehicle such as saddle-type vehicle that are used for personal transportation.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Generally, small sized vehicles and especially vehicles used for personal
transportation are made in a manner that typically the rider is capable of
commuting from one place to another. Such small sized vehicles are also made to
accommodate a pillion to the rider. These vehicles are generally provided with
two wheels. Though, in certain variants, they can be provided with an additional
wheel added either to the front wheel or to the rear wheel or in some cases to both.
Such configurations are provided to make the vehicle stand on the wheels instead
of a dedicated vehicle support structure such as a center stand or a side stand.
Further, addition of one or more wheels to two-wheelers also adds stability and
balance while riding compared to a conventional two-wheeler thereby avoiding
capsizing. All these are achieved without much increase on the overall width and
length of a typical two-wheeler, which ensures that the rider can maneuver with
nearly the same way as he or she does on a two-wheeler and the vehicle is more
compact than a conventional four-wheeler. Such vehicles are also advantageously v
provided with a small sized engine. One of the primary features of such a vehicle is that the occupants of the vehicle including the rider are seated on a seating structure that allows the occupants to straddle or step-through to occupy the seat and are sans doors. The occupants are generally seated one behind the other, in some cases, they are seated side by side. More often than not, such vehicles are exposed to atmosphere and are not enclosed in nature, and in several instances, do not contain a roof structure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0003] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0004] Fig. 1 illustrates a step-through type vehicle, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0005] Fig. 2 (a) illustrates a left side perspective view of a vehicle provided
with a canopy structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0006] Fig. 2 (b) depicts a left side perspective view of the vehicle shown in
Fig. 2 (a) provided with a canopy structure, in accordance with another
embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0007] Fig. 3 depicts another left side perspective view of the vehicle shown in
Fig. 2 (b) provided with a canopy structure, in accordance with an embodiment of
the present subject matter.
[0008] Fig. 4 depicts a left side perspective view of a vehicle provided with a
canopy structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0009] Fig. 5A illustrates a left side perspective view of a vehicle provided with a
canopy structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00010] Fig. SB depicts a left side perspective view of a vehicle provided with a
canopy structure, in accordance with another embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[00011] Fig. 6 depicts a foldable box like structure in accordance with an
i
embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00012] Fig. 7A depicts mounting of the foldable box like structure shown in Fig. 6 in a rear end of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00013] Fig. 7B depicts a front perspective view of the foldable box like structure shown in Fig.6 in an open condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00014] Fig. 7C depicts a left-side perspective view of the foldable box like-structure shown in Fig.6 in. an open condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.

[00015] Several attempts have been made in the past to provide compact personal transportation vehicles such as two-wheelers with a roof like structure. However, such attempts have hardly been successful due to various technical limitations.
[00016] One such technical limitation being the bulkier configurations of roof like structures known in the existing art. Such bulkier configurations almost make a two-wheeled vehicle used for personal transportation look like a passenger car, which in turn largely affects design flexibility. Further, such known configurations were much heavier and increases- the position of the center of gravity of the vehicle from the ground level, due to a larger disposition of mass above the seating position of the vehicle. It is more applicable in case of vehicles provided with two or three wheels only, which makes vehicle handling much more difficult. Moreover, such roof like structures provided on vehicles are generally provided for better safety of the rider & pillion from external weather conditions such as wind, dust, sun etc.. In the known art, such structures are generally made of combination of solar panels & support members which either run on complete solar energy or aid the powertrain.
[00017] Furthermore, existing vehicles which are provided with solar panel embedded roof structures are either formed as complete enclosures, which clearly make vehicle handling and vehicle maneuvering difficult, or as extended visor like panels, which, leads to various other problems including vibration of panels at high speed and fragile roof structure without proper support. Further, in such vehicles, extension of solar panels throughout the enclosure including the front visor area towards the pillars supporting the roof structure can lead to poor comer visibility & accidents. Moreover, widening the pillar area in order to enhance the solar impedance area is also detrimental to safety as it may lead to obstructing or restricting the rider's view. Furthermore, reducing the pillar area may lead to loss of solar impedance area around the front portion of the vehicle, which is detrimental too.

[00018] Other than the above stated problems, there are other less critical but important problems that are associated with the existing solar panel embedded roof structures. These include positioning of rear view mirror assemblies, which are often extended in vehicle widthwise direction, which leads to .various safety concerns. Moreover, in many known configurations, the space available for the occupants including the rider and the pillion are often compromised for the sake of increasing area of solar panels in the vehicle. Such vehicles referred to as canopy type vehicles often deviate from the basic requirement of a personal transportation type vehicle like two-wheeler and often end up in increasing the complexity for the user for the sake of providing a roof structure. [00019] Moreover, there exist several problems with respect to vehicles with the canopy structure fixedly attached. For instance, manufacturing of such vehicles with fixed canopy structure is cumbersome and involves complex manufacturing steps, Further, such a vehicle that is fixedly attached with the canopy structure cannot be used in all places, and is often capable of being used in places which receives sunlight throughout the year. Furthermore, it is also not easy for people from different segment & demography to use such vehicles with ease.. Additionally, the canopy structure being integral part of the vehicle, is vulnerable to major damage & maintenance in event of minor accidents e.g. vehicle falling down. Further, such vehicles are also prone to problem of theft and damage to the structure when parked or not in use. There is also a need for the rider of the vehicle to be able to enjoy a ride without such a canopy structure once in a while as part of leisure which is not possible with the existing vehicles provided with canopy structure. In other words, existing vehicles do not have a solution to be able to add a canopy structure as and when needed.
[00020] The present subject matter is aimed at providing a vehicle used for personal transportation with a portable canopy structure provided with solar panels with the flexibility of using the canopy structure whenever required, which overcomes the above stated problems existing in such vehicles known in the art. [00021] In an implementation, the present subject matter provides a portable vehicle used for personal transportation having a front structure provided with at

least one front wheel movably coupled to a steering column at a lower end thereof. The steering column is coupled to a vehicle steering assembly at an upper end thereof. In one implementation, the vehicle steering assembly is a handlebar assembly, while in another implementation the vehicle steering assembly is a steering wheel assembly, or any such arrangement to change the direction of the vehicle. A rear structure having at least one rear wheel capable of being rotated by a power unit of the vehicle is provided. The rear structure includes a seat sub¬structure extending longitudinally rearwardiy above or in front of the at least one rear wheel. A top structure is disposed between the front structure and the rear structure. The top structure extends upwardly rearwardiy from the front structure connecting the rear structure. The top structure is made of one or more portions capable of being foldably stowed in a first configuration, and releasably unfolded connecting said front structure and said rear structure in a second configuration. [00022] In an embodiment, the first configuration of the top structure is an inoperative condition, while" the second configuration of the top structure is an operative condition.
[00023] In one implementation, the top structure includes a front sub-structure, which acts as a windshield member-extending upwardly in front of the vehicle steering assembly. Further, in an implementation, the rear structure includes a mounting member capable of receiving one or more portions of the top structure. [00024] In an embodiment, the top structure is made of a single piece connecting the front structure and the rear structure of the vehicle. Further, in an embodiment, the mounting member of the rear structure is a pillion handle. In an embodiment, the first predetermined angle, for example a cone of angle, which allows a substantially horizontal line of vision for a rider of the vehicle, is substantially more than cone angle of 10°. In one embodiment, the line of vision of the rider ranges between cone angle of 0° to 10°, while in another embodiment, the line of vision of the rider ranges between cone angle of 10° to 30°. [00025] In an embodiment, the top structure includes a rear sub-structure extending rearwardiy downwardly and joining the mounting member of the rear structure.

[00026] Further, in an implementation, the top structure includes one or more
solar panels extending substantially sidewardly downwardly providing a
substantially perpendicular angle of incidence of solar rays on the sidewardly
extending panels. In an implementation, the top structure is substantially dome .
shaped and provided with chamfered edges. In an alternative embodiment, the top
structure is spheroid shaped without the edges being chamfered. In a further
alternative embodiment, the top structure is spheroidal, for example half-egg
i shaped or elliptical solid. Further, in other alternative embodiments, the top
structure is elliptical spheroid or egg shaped.
[00027] In an embodiment, the top structure includes a cover member extending
substantially horizontally xearwardly above said seat sub-structure. The cove'r
member is'capable of shielding occupants of the vehicle, for example, in the first
configuration, from external environmental factors including wind, rainfall and
snowfall.
[00028] In one implementation, the vehicle is an electric operated vehicle,
wherein the power unit is an electric motor. In another implementation, the
vehicle is a hybrid vehicle, and the power unit includes an engine assembly and an
electric motor.
[00029] In an embodiment, the one or more portions of the top structure includes
at least one portion acting as a backrest member extending substantially upwardly
from a rearmost portion of the seat sub-structure.
[00030] In an embodiment, the top structure is made of a light weight material
selected from a group consisting of composite material like fiber reinforced
plastic and polyacrylonitrile, aluminum, sheet metal and plastic.
[00031] Further, in one embodiment, the top structure includes a bottom surface
and a top surface, and wherein the top surface is provided with the one or more
solar panels or array of photo voltaic cells embedded in the panel capable of
receiving solar energy and charging an energy storage device.
[00032] Further, in an embodiment, the first configuration of the top structure is
an inoperative condition, and the second configuration of the top structure is an
operative condition.

[00033] The one or more portions are hingedly connected including a first portion
acting as a cover member connecting the windshield member at a front end
thereof and an upwardly extending second portion at a rear end thereof. The
second portion is detachably attached to a mounting member of the rear structure.
[00034] In an embodiment, the one or more portions is capable of being foldably
stowed inside a boxlike compartment, and the boxlike compartment is capable of
being detachably attached to a mounting member of the rear structure of the
vehicle.
[00035] Further, in an' embodiment, the boxlike compartment acts as a backrest
member of the seat structure in an inoperative condition, and is capable of being
unfolded to connect the rear structure and the front structure of the vehicle
extending upwardly above the seat structure in an operative condition.
[00036] In an implementation, the top structure includes one or more transceiver
members capable of electronically connecting one or more electronic devices of
said vehicle to at least one of a global communication network and one or more
adjoining vehicle(s). For example, the one or more transceiver members provided
on the top structure enables on-road detection of nearby objects and largely help
in prevention of accidents or collisions.
[00037] In an embodiment, the box like compartment acts as a solar kit assembly
capable of being detachably attached to the vehicle.
[00038] These and other advantages of the present subject matter would be
described in greater detail in conjunction with the figures in the following
description.
[00039] Fig. 1 illustrates a left side view of an exemplary vehicle 100, in
accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The vehicle 100
has a frame assembly 105 having a step-through type layout. The frame assembly
105 includes a head tube 105A, a main tube 105B extending downwardly
rearward from the head tube 105A, and a pair of railing 105C that extend
inclinedly rearward. A handlebar assembly 110 is mounted to a steering shaft (not
shown). The steering shaft is rotatably supported by the head tube 105A. A front
wheel 115 is connected to the handle bar assembly 110 through one or more front

suspension(s) 120. A power unit 180 is swingably mounted to the frame assembly 105. In an embodiment, the power unit 180 is an engine functionally coupled to a rear wheel 125. In another embodiment, the power unit 180 is a motor, for example, a hub motor mounted on the hub of the rear wheel 125. In an alternative embodiment, the power unit 180 is a rotating shaft motor mounted on swinging portion, while in another alternative embodiment, the power unit 180 is a chassis mounted shaft rotating motor.
[00040] Further, the rear wheel 125 is connected to the frame assembly 105 through one or more rear suspension(s) 130. In an embodiment, the power unit 180 is swingably connected to the frame assembly 105 through a toggle link (not shown). A seat assembly 135, also interchangeably called as a seat sub-structure 135 is disposed upwardly of the power unit 180 and is supported by the pair of railings 105C. A storage compartment (not shown) provided below the seat assembly 135 are supported by the pair of railing(s) 105C. The utility box is accessible in an open condition of the seat assembly 135.
[00041] Furthermore, the vehicle 100 is provided with plurality of panels 140A, MOB, and 1400. A floorboard 145 is disposed at a step-through space defined by the frame assembly 105. The user can operate the vehicle by resting feet on the floorboard 145, in a sitting position. A front fender 150 is covering at least a portion of the front wheel 115. In the present embodiment, the front fender 150 is integrated with the panels 140A. A rear fender 155 covers at least a portion of the rear wheel 125. The front fender 150 and the rear fender 155 prevent splashing of dirt on to the vehicle parts and away from the vehicle 100. In one embodiment, a fuel tank (not shown) is supported by the frame assembly 105 and is functionally coupled to the engine assembly 180. The vehicle 100 comprises of plurality of electrical/electronic components including a headlight 160A, a tail light 160B, a battery (not shown), a transistor controlled ignition (TCI) unit (not shown), an alternator (not shown), a starter motor (not shown).
[00042] Fig. 2 (a) illustrates a left side perspective view of a vehicle 200-1 provided with a canopy structure,' in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In an embodiment, the vehicle 200-1 includes a top

structure 208 extending between a front structure 215 and a rear structure 220 of the vehicle 200-1. In an embodiment, the top structure 208 is made of a single , piece adaptable to be joined with a windshield structure 210, also called as a windshield member 210 of the front structure 215 at a front end thereof. Similarly, in an embodiment, the top structure 208 is adaptable to be joined with an extended backrest structure 206, extending upwardly rearward from a top portion of a backrest structure 204, also called as a backrest member 204 of the rear structure 220 of the vehicle 200-1.
[00043] In an embodiment, the windshield structure 210 includes a visor capable of shielding a rider of the vehicle 200-1 from wind and sunlight, which otherwise obstructs the rider from maneuvering ahead with ease. In one embodiment, the top structure 208 is joined to the extended backrest structure 206 by means of one or more couplers 212, which apart from providing a rigid joint at the ends also enhances ease of assembly and disassembly. In an embodiment, the extended backrest structure 206 of the rear structure 220 is provided with a transversely extending head rest portion 285, which allows a pillion rider to comfortably rest his/her head during ride. In an embodiment, the backrest structure 204 and the extended backrest structure 206 are aligned in order to ergonomically support the seating position of the pillion rider. In an alternative embodiment, the top structure 208 is enmolded with the front structure 215 and the rear structure 220. [00044] Fig. 2 (b) depicts a left side perspective view of the vehicle shown in Fig. 2 (a) provided with a canopy structure, in accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter. In an embodiment, the vehicle 200-2 has a top structure 209 that is dome shaped. In an embodiment, the top structure 209 of the vehicle 200-2 is oval shaped when viewed from the top. Further, in one embodiment, the top structure 209 is embedded with a plurality of solar panels 213. In an embodiment, the top structure 209 is rounded at all corners extending forwardly to join with the windshield structure 210 of the front structure 215, and extending rearwardly to join with the extended backrest structure 206 of the rear structure 220. In an embodiment, the plurality of solar panels 213 are disposed uniformly across an upper surface of the top structure 209 extending forwardly and

downwardly to a front most portion 275 and extending sidewardly and downwardly to a sideward portion 280. In an embodiment, the sideward portion 280 of the plurality of solar panels 213 is substantially perpendicular to the angle of incidence of sunlight allowing maximum exposure to sunlight during all positions of sun in a day. The outer surface area of the sideward portion 213 of the panel ranges from 5% to 50% of the outer surface area of the top structure 209. In an embodiment, the. top structure 209 includes at least one pillion handle 270 disposed downwardly from its side surface 295 (shown in Fig. 3) allowing the pillion to hold during riding condition.
[00045] Fig. 3 depicts another left side perspective view of the vehicle shown in Fig. 2 (b) provided with a canopy structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject, matter. In an embodiment, the plurality of solar panels 213 embedded to the upper surface of the top structure 209 is uniformly distributed such that a square unit 305, for example of a size of one square centimeter of the plurality of solar panels 213, is capable of generating approximately 6.to 16 milliwatts of power per square centimeter. In an embodiment, the plurality of solar panels 213 are closely spaced apart from each other uniformly across the dome shaped top structure 209. In another embodiment, the plurality of solar panels 213 are more densely stacked at the top structure 209, while are not as densely stacked extending forwardly towards the front most portion 275 and a corresponding rearwardly disposed rear most portion (not shown). In one embodiment, the plurality of solar panels stacked in the sideward portion 280 extending downwardly to a side most portion 295 is substantially higher as compared to the plurality of solar panels stacked forwardly extending towards the front most portion 275 and the corresponding rear most portion. [00046] In an embodiment, the front most portion 275 of the plurality of solar panels 213 are so disposed on the top structure 209 that the positioning of the solar panels 213 do not affect a line of vision 290 of the rider at any point of time during the ride. In an embodiment, the front most portion 275 is disposed such that the line of vision of the rider ranges in a cone angle from approximately 0° to 10°. In another embodiment, the.front most portion 275 can extend downwardly

to a maximum predetermined position up to which the line of vision 290 of the rider remains unaffected, for example in a cone angle ranging approximately between 10° to 30°. In an alternative embodiment, the top structure 211 of the vehicle 200-3 can be of any other shape other than a spheroidal, dome or oval shape, which provides a similarly enhanced area of exposure of the plurality of solar panels 213 to sunlight at any point of time during the day or any other incident light. In an embodiment, the top structure 209 protects the rider and the pillion from direct exposure to sunlight at all time of the day. Similarly, the vehicle 200-3 of the present subject matter is a. green vehicle capable of utilizing the power generated by the plurality of solar panels 213 to power various loads of the vehicle 200-3. In an embodiment, the vehicle 200-3 provides an eco-friendly personal transportation means for the user, which generates less pollutants. [00047] Fig. 4 depicts a left side perspective view of a vehicle provided with a canopy structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In an embodiment, the top structure 211 of the vehicle 200-4 is enmolded with the front structure 215 and the rear structure 220. In one embodiment, the top structure 211 of the present subject matter is made of a light weight material selected from a group consisting of composite material like fiber reinforced plastic and polyacrylonitrile, aluminum, sheet metal and plastic. In one embodiment, the top structure 211 of the present subject matter makes the vehicle 200-4 less bulky and compact as a leftmost portion 320 of the handle bar assembly 110 of the vehicle 200-4 extends slightly outside a left structural member 315 of the visor structure 210. Similarly, the rightmost portion (not shown) of the handle bar assembly 110 of the vehicle 200-4 extends slightly outside a right structural member 310 of the visor structure 210. Such an arrangement of the visor structure 210 enables optimal mounting location for a rear-view mirror (LH & RH) (not shown), which enables the rider of the vehicle 200-4 to have an unobstructed rear view without having to unnecessarily make the enmolded top structure bulkier. Similarly, the enmolded top structure 211 of the present subject matter is provided with an aerodynamic design that ensures enhanced vehicle maneuverability at the same time provides an aesthetically

pleasing structure for the vehicle 200-4. In an embodiment, the backrest structure 204 is attached to the rear structure 220 in such, a manner that a pillion handle structure 214 extends substantially outwardly when viewed from side of the vehicle 200-4. In an alternative embodiment, the pillion handle structure 214 is hingedly attached to the frame assembly 105 in such a manner that the pillion .handle structure 214 can swivel from a forwardly disposed position in which it acts as an arm rest for the pillion rider to a rearwardly disposed position in which it enables the pillion rider to hold the pillion handle structure 214. Further, in an embodiment, the backrest structure 204 is provided with a pair of connecting arms 216 that are rigid extending rearwardly upward from the backrest structure 204 for uprightly holding the top structure 211. In an embodiment, the pair of connecting arms 216 extend in such a manner that they do not obstruct with the seating posture of the pillion rider. Moreover, the pair of connecting arms 216 also acts as an auxiliary pillion grab members as they are constructed in a manner that enable the pillion riders to hold them when the vehicle is in running. [00048] Fig. 5A illustrates a left side perspective view of a vehicle 300-1 provided with a canopy structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In an embodiment, the canopy structure including the visor structure 210 and a retractable top structure 312 is hingedly disposed above the seat assembly 135. In an alternative embodiment, the canopy structure including the visor structure 210 and the retractable top structure 312 is telescopically unfolded above the seat assembly 135. In an embodiment, the visor structure 210 has a first end and a second end. For example, the first end of the visor structure 210 is movably coupled to the retractable top structure, while the second end of the visor structure 210 is detachably attached to the front structure 215 (shown in Fig. 2A) of the vehicle 300-1. In an embodiment, the visor structure 210 is removably attached to the front structure 215 such that the visor structure 210 is rigidly held when the vehicle 300-1 is in motion and does not cause any undue vibration or noise.
[00049] In an embodiment, the first end of the visor structure 210 is movably coupled to the retractable top structure 312 at a first retractable joint 314. Further,

in one embodiment, the top structure 312 is made of two parts, wherein both the parts of the top structure are movably coupled at a second retractable joint 316. [00050] In an embodiment, the right structural member 310 of the canopy structure is foldably attached to a pair of rear extension arms 308. In an embodiment, the visor structure 210, the top structure 312 and the right structural member 310 are foldable about the first retractable joint 314 and the second retractable joint 316 such that the canopy structure is folded about a third retractable joint 334 that connects the rear extension arms 308 with the right structural member 310. In an embodiment, the rear extension arms 308 are foldable about a fourth retractable joint 336 that is provided on a top end portion of backrest support members 306.
[00051] In an embodiment, the entire canopy structure including the visor structure 210, the top structure 312, the right structural member 310, and the rear extension arms 308 are capable of being foldably stowed to the backrest support members 306. In one embodiment, the folded canopy structure acts as an extended backrest member for the pillion rider when the canopy structure is not in operative condition.
[00052] In one embodiment, a pillion backrest member 318 is provided between the pair of backrest support members 306, which acts as the backrest for the pillion rider when the canopy structure is in operative condition. In an embodiment, the backrest support members 308 are supported atop a mounting member 302 of the rear structure 220. In an embodiment, the mounting member 302 is a structural member and is rigidly connected to the frame assembly 105 (not shown in this figure) of the vehicle 300-1 such that the mounting member 302 is capable of withstanding the static and dynamic load of the canopy structure in both operative and non-operative conditions. In an embodiment, a plurality of pillion grab members 304 are provided in a forwardly extending manner that allows the pillion rider to hold on to when the vehicle 300-1 is in running condition.
[00053] In an alternative embodiment, the visor structure 210 is fixedly attached to the front structure 215 of the vehicle 300-1 and the canopy structure including

the top structure 312 is hingedly attached to the fixed visor structure 210 at the first retractable joint 314.
[00054] Fig. 5B depicts a left side perspective view of a vehicle 300-2 provided with a canopy structure, in accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter. In an embodiment, the visor structure 210 is fixedly attached to the front structure 215. The canopy structure including the top structure 312 is hingedly attached to the first end of the visor structure 210 at the first retractable joint 314. In one embodiment, the top structure includes two parts that are retractable about the second retractable joint 316.
[00055] In an embodiment, the vehicle 300-2 is provided with a box-like structure 322 having a bottom portion 322-1 that is detachably mounted to the mounting member 302 of the rear structure 220. In an embodiment, the box-like structure 322 includes a top portion 322-2 that is capable of being rotatably extended upwardly of the bottom portion 322-1. In an embodiment, the canopy structure including the top structure 312 and the right structural member 310 are capable of being retractably stowed inside the top portion 322-2 of the box-like structure 322 in a non-operative condition of the canopy structure.
[00056] In an alternative embodiment, the box-like structure 322 is permanently attached to the mounting member 302 of the rear structure 220 of the vehicle 300-2 such that the box like structure acts as a fixed back rest member. Further, in the embodiment in which the box like structure 322 is detachably attached to the mounting member 302, the canopy structure is capable of being folded and stowed inside the box-like structure 322 and portably carried. Further, when the box-like structure 322 is in a detached state, the mounting member 302 acts as a pillion grab handle for the pillion rider, while in an attached state of the box-like structure 322, the support handle 321 acts as the pillion grab handle for trie pillion rider.
[00057] In an embodiment, the box-like structure 322 is provided with an external lockset 338, which is capable of locking/unlocking the box-like structure 322. For instance, in a locked condition, the top portion 322-2 of the box-like structure 322 foldably encloses the entire canopy structure including the top structure 312 and

the right structural member 310. Further, the top portion 322-2, is hingedly mounted to the bottom portion 322-1 such that during the locked condition the top portion 322-2 along with the folded canopy structure closes the bottom structure 322-1. In an unlocked condition of the box-like structure 322, the top portion 322-2 is rotatably extended upwardsuch that the canopy structure is unstowed out of the top portion 322-2 and hingedly attached to the visor structure 210 thereby forming the canopy structure. In an embodiment, the box-like structure is disposed vertically such that the top portion 322-2 extends along its length with respect to the bottom portion 322-1 in an operative condition of the box-Like structure 322.
[00058] Fig. 6 depicts a foldable box-like structure 322, also called as a box-like compartment 322, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In an embodiment, the box-like structure 322 includes the bottom portion 322-1 and the top portion 322-2 foldably attached to each other and the pillion support handle 321 acts as a lifting handle for portably carrying the box-like structure 322 when not in use. For instance, in an embodiment, the box-like structure 322 in its folded condition is of 40 to 60 centimeters in length (L), 35 to • 50 centimeters in width (W), and 15 to 25 centimeters in depth (D), such that the entire canopy structure is capable of being comfortably folded inside the box-like structure 322 and portably carried. Thus, the volume of the box ranges from 40 X 35 X 15 to 60 X 50 X 25 in terms of L X W X D & can be varied further in a range of ± 10%. For instance, the box-like structure 322 is capable of comfortably placed in a floorboard 145 zone of the vehicle when the canopy structure is in a non-operative condition.
[00059] Fig. 7A depicts mounting, of the foldable box like structure 322 shown in Fig. 6 in a rear end of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Fig. 7B depicts a front perspective view of the foldable box like structure 322 shown in Fig.6 in an open condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Fig. 7C depicts a left side perspective view of the foldable box like structure 322 shown in Fig.6 in an open condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In an embodiment,

the box-like structure 322 is disposed horizontally such that the top portion 322-2 extends along its width with respect to the bottom portion 322-1 in an operative condition of the box-like structure 322 as depicted in Fig. 7B. Further, as can be seen in Fig.7B, the bottom portion 322-1 is conveniently mounted to the mounting member 302 of the rear structure 220 by means of one or more fastening members 340 that are fastened vertically from an inner portion of the bottom portion 322-1 such that the fastening members 340 are not seen from outside and are visible only when the box like structure 322 is in an open condition. Alternatively, the box-like structure may be snap fit onto the mounting member 302. [00060] In an embodiment, the top portion 322-2 of the box-like structure 322 as shown in Fig. 7B shows the folded canopy 330 enclosed within the top portion 322-2. In an embodiment, the top portion 322-2 and the bottom portion 322-1 are externally coupled to each other by means of one or more plate like structures (not shown) in the operative condition of the box-like structure 322 such that the top portion 322-2 is held rigidly to the bottom portion 322-1 and ensures that the static and dynamic load of the canopy structure is transferred to the mounting member 302.
[00061] In an embodiment, as seen in Fig. 7C, in a mounted, condition of the box¬like structure 322, the mounting member 302 is provided with an extended support member 342 such that the top portion 322-2 and the bottom portion 322-1 are rigidly supported by the mounting member 302 in an operative, condition of the canopy structure. In one embodiment, the closed state of the top portion 322-2 (shown as dotted lines) acts as a backrest cushion for the pillion rider when the canopy structure is in a non-operative condition. In an embodiment, the top portion 322-2 extends upwardly and disposed at substantially 180° when the canopy structure is in operative condition.
[00062] Many modifications and variations of the present subject matter are possible within the spirit and scope of the present subject matter, in the light of above disclosure.

We claim:
1. A two-or three-wheeled vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-
2) comprising: a front structure (215) having at least one front wheel (115) movably coupled to a steering column (113) at a lower end thereof, said steering column (113) coupled to a vehicle steering assembly at an upper end thereof; a rear structure (220) having at least one rear, wheel (125) capable of being rotated by a power unit of said vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2), said rear structure (220) comprising a seat sub-structure (135) extending longitudinally rearwardly above said at least one rear wheel (125), a top structure . (208, 209, 211, 312) disposed between said front structure (215) and said rear structure (220), said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) extending upwardly rearwardly from said front structure (215) connecting said rear structure (220), wherein said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) is made of a one or more portions capable of being foldably stowed in a first configuration, and releasably unfolded connecting said front structure (215) and said rear structure (220) in a second configuration.
2. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) includes a front sub-structure (210), and wherein said front sub-structure (210) is a windshield member (210) extending upwardly in front of said vehicle steering assembly.
3. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said rear structure (220) includes a mounting member (302) capable of receiving one or more portions of said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312).
4. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1 or 3, wherein said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) includes a rear sub-

structure extending rearwardly downwardly and joining said mounting member of said rear structure (220).
5. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) includes a cover member extending substantially horizontally rearwardly above said seat sub-structure (135), said cover member capable of shielding occupants of said vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) in said first configuration from external environmental factors including wind, rainfall and snowfall.
6. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said one or more portions of said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) comprises at least one portion acting as a backrest member (204) extending substantially upwardly from a rearmost portion of said seat sub-structure.
7. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first configuration of said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) is an inoperative condition, and said second configuration of said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) is an operative condition.
8. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein said one or more portions are hingedly connected including a first portion acting as a cover member connecting said windshield member (210) at a front end thereof and an upwardly extending second portion at a rear end thereof, and wherein said second portion is detachably attached to a mounting member (302) of said rear structure (220).
9. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 3, wherein said mounting member (302) of said rear structure is a pillion. handle structure (214).

10. The" vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in . claim 1, wherein said vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) is an electric operated vehicle, and wherein said power unit is an electric motor.
11. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) is a hybrid vehicle, and wherein said power unit (180) includes an engine assembly and an electric motor. s
12. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2)as claimed in claim 1, wherein said top structure (208, 209, 211,312) is made of a light weight material selected from a group consisting of composite material like fiber reinforced plastic and polyacryloru trite, aluminum, sheet metal and plastic.
13. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) includes a bottom surface and a top surface, and wherein said top surface is provided with one or more solar panels (213) or array of photo voltaic cells capable of receiving solar energy and charging an energy storage device.
14. The vehicle (100, 200-.1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said one or more portions is capable of being foldably stowed inside a boxlike compartment (322); and wherein said boxlike compartment (322) is capable of being detachably attached to a mounting member (302) of said rear structure (220) of said vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2).
15. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1, claim 13 or 14, wherein said boxlike compartment (322) acts as a backrest member (322-1) of said seat sub-structure (135) in an inoperative condition, and is capable of being unfolded to connect said rear structure (220) and said front structure (214) of said vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4,

300-1, 300-2) extending upwardly' above said seat sub-structure (135) in an operative condition.
16. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in , claim 1 or 15, wherein said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) includes one or more transceiver members capable of electronically connecting one or more electronic devices -of said vehicle to at least one of a global communication network and one or more adjoining vehicle(s).
17. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said vehicle steering assembly is at least one of a handlebar assembly (110) and a steering wheel assembly.
18. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2)as claimed in claim 14, wherein said box like compartment (322) acts as a solar kit assembly capable of being detachably attached to said vehicle.
19. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1 or 13, wherein said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) is substantially dome shaped and provided with chamfered edges.
20. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1 or 13, wherein said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) is spheroid shaped without the edges being chamfered.
21. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4/300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1 or 13, wherein said top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) is at least one of a half-egg shaped, elliptical solid, elliptical spheroid and egg shaped:
22. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 1 or 13, wherein said one or more solar panels (213) are disposed uniformly across an upper surface of the top structure (208, 209, 211, 312) extending forwardly and downwardly to a front most portion, and extending sidewardly and downwardly to a sideward portion (280)..

23. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 22, wherein the front most portion (275) extend downwardly to a maximum ■ predetermined position up to which a line of vision (290) of the rider remains unafFected with a cone angle ranging approximately between 0° to 10° and between 10° to 30°.
24. The vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 22, wherein the sideward portion (280) has an outer surface area ranging from 5% to 50% of outer surface area of the top structure (208,209,211,312).
25. Tne vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 13, wherein said one or more solar panels (213) is capable of generating approximately 6 to 16 milliwatts of power per square centimeter.
26. Tne vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 14, wherein said boxlike compartment (322) has a volume ranging approximately between 40:35:20 to 60:50:25 with a tolerance of ± 10% in terms of length, width and depth of said boxlike compartment (322).
27. Tne vehicle (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, 300-1, 300-2) as claimed in claim 9, wherein said pillion handle structure (214) is hingedly attached to the frame assembly (105), said pillion handle structure (214) capable of swiveling from a forwardly disposed position in which it acts as. an arm rest for the pillion rider lo a rearwardly disposed position in which it enables the pillion rider to hold the pillion handle structure (214).