Up to half of Europe's first fleet of tuk-tuks is to be sold on internet auction site eBay.

TucTuc Ltd made the announcement yesterday as the company took its three-wheelers off the road in Brighton and Hove until spring.

Dominic Ponniah, executive director of TucTuc Ltd, said it did not need the full fleet of 12 and had ordered ten larger models which will replace the old ones. The firm is also looking at wheelchair accessible rickshaws, a key criterion to compete for taxi licences in Brighton and Hove.

He said: "We are really excited about being able to offer the public a chance to own their very own piece of history, by purchasing one of the first motorised rickshaws to be run as a public transport service.

"The vehicles have been on an extraordinary journey since they started in July, and I am sure people will want to share in the magic and colour they have brought to the city.

"The vehicles are ideal for personal use in and around the city, or for a business wishing to promote themselves in an environmentally friendly way."

Earlier this year, the company was fined £16,500 for not meeting its service timetable but Mr Ponniah denied that was connected with the sale. He said: "This is not to pay the fine. I have no intention of paying the fine."

The rickshaws will be sold on January 15 and Mr Ponniah hopes each will raise a minimum of £5,000.

For more information, email tuctuc@tuctuc.co.uk or telephone 0207 735 5059.