Trylon; Tryon

The Trylon was one of the most distinctively styled three-wheelers of the late 1980's. Designed by Rick Murphy, the Trylon featured a giant 'clam-shell' canopy lifted for entry to the tandem 2-seater cockpit. Very narrow at the front and very wide at the rear, the Trylon was based on VW Beetle mechanics, including the engine, gearbox, rear suspension and steering. A strong box section steel cage was encased in the fibreglass body, and the front suspension was based on motorcycle components. Inside, the dashboard featured 'space-age' instruments and aircraft-style steering controls. After being manufactured in Arlington IL, from 1989 to 1996, production moved to Mesa, AZ, with the vehicle being relaunched as the Tryon.