CIHT's response to E-scooter consultation

7th Jul 2020

The department for transport E-scooter consultation closed last month (02/06/2020). The consultation was to decide on how to alter regulations to enable e-scooter trials to begin and to set the rules e-scooter users must follow during these trials.

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The call for evidence asked for views on a definition of an e-scooter and its physical design, the maximum speed and power limits to be allowed in trials and a range of rules for legal e-scooter use during trials.

CIHT recommended that e-scooters should be treated similarly to electrically assisted pedal cycle (EAPC) and that regulatory changes should : 

  • remove the requirements to wear a motorcycle helmet
  • allow e-scooters to use the road, cycle lanes and tracks
  • exempt e-scooters from vehicle registration and licensing

However, e-scooters should not be exempt from type approval requirements. There needs to be a basic examination of each type of e-scooter to avoid the market being flooded with low-grade machines that are not suitable for rental use. Low-grade machines can put riders at risk and have a shorter life span as parts cannot be replaced making e-scooters less sustainable.

CIHT recommends that e-scooters should not be permitted on pavements as they pose risk to pedestrians. Micro mobility modes should not be switched to from more sustainable modes of walking and cycling.

Click here to read CIHT's full consultation response.

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