Electric Vehicles

(asked on 9th July 2019) - View Source

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Vere of Norbiton on 5 July (HL16757), whether electrically powered personal vehicles such as scooters, gyroscopic one or two-wheel vehicles and other similar vehicles are permitted to operate anywhere.


Answered by
Baroness Vere of Norbiton Portrait
Baroness Vere of Norbiton
Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)
This question was answered on 23rd July 2019

Electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs) are allowed on cycle routes provided they conform with the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles Regulations. If an EAPC meets those regulatory requirements it is treated the same as a pedal cycle.

In the UK, electric scooters are treated like any other motor vehicle under the Road Traffic Act. This means they are subject to laws requiring them to conform to technical standards and be used safely. This includes requirements for users to have insurance, driving licences, number plates, and helmets. At present, it is difficult for electric scooters to meet these requirements.

Therefore, it is illegal to use an electric scooter on public roads and pavements. They are legal for use on private land with the landowners’ permission.

The Future of Mobility regulatory review will address the challenges of ensuring our transport infrastructure and regulation are fit for the future. This is a broad programme of work, and we expect to publish an initial consultation in autumn this year.

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