NEW DELHI: The autorickshaw is now all set for a papal touch. Two made-in-Maharashtra three-wheeler, desi versions of the 'Popemobile', the specially-designed automobile used by the Pope at public appearances, is to whirr across the Vatican. ( Watch )

The three-wheelers have been presented to the Pope by Italian automaker Piaggio, which manufactures them at its Baramati plant. The Piaggio Ape Calessino vehicles, that carry special insignia of the Vatican city and are white in colour in line with papal requirements, were presented to Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican last week, marking one of the most visible Indian connections to the spiritual leader.

"These vehicles were given a complete look and feel of a Popemobile by putting a white coloured hood, white tyres, seat upholstery, and white body paint. The insignia on the doors is specially handcrafted. The entire vehicle was given a complete unique decor to suit the aura of His Holiness," Ravi Chopra, CMD of Piaggio's Indian subsidiary, told TOI.

Chopra said the Pope gave the delegation an audience where they apprised him of the vehicles and where they were manufactured.

"He enquired about India and expressed a desire to visit the country," Chopra said. But would the Holy father actually get to use the vehicles and why would he prefer a three-wheeler over his fleet of cars. Chopra is confident he will.

"Just as a golf cart, they can be used by the Pope, may be for moving in the garden or some other purpose," he said.