Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles Regulations 1983, what assessment he has made of the impact of the requirement that the electric motors of such cycles must have a maximum power output of 250 watts on the ability of (a) cargo bikes and (b) adaptive disability bikes to operate safely and effectively on (i) hilly and (ii) other terrain.

The Department is aware that there may be benefits in increasing the continuous rated motor power for Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPC) particularly for e-cargo bikes and bikes adapted for people with disabilities. Any amendments would need to take account of how changes could affect the safety of the rider and other road users, including pedestrians.

The Department most recently reviewed the case for amending the current power restrictions as part of the Future of Transport Regulatory Review Call for Evidence published in 2020. The summary of the Call for Evidence is available online, at: www.gov.uk/government/consultations/future-of-transport-regulatory-review-call-for-evidence-on-micromobility-vehicles-flexible-bus-services-and-mobility-as-a-service. The matter was also considered as part of a call for evidence on last mile deliveries in 2018. The Government’s response to this consultation is available online, at: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/the-last-mile-a-call-for-evidence.

The Department will continue to keep the policy under review.