New e-scooter riding laws to help salvage £7billion industry
E-scooters are capped at 12.5mph
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New driving laws could come into force to help save the £7billion motor vehicle industry which includes e-scooters and bikes. The regulation would help boost the UK trajectory towards net zero and help encourage the uptake of more sustainable modes of transport.
The suggested regulation comes as sales for new e-scooters and bikes in July were down by 7.3 per cent, official figures revealed.
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To combat this, expert have flagged Government intervention as a key player in increasing sales while also benefiting the UK.
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E-scooter trials were extended until 2026
PAIn the latest Motorcycle Industry Association manifesto, it called on the Government to modernise regulations to allow for new types of zero emission transport to hit the road.
As part of this, the manifesto urged the Government to support regulatory reform to improve consumer choice, facilitate market access, and support innovation.
Tony Campbell, CEO of MCIA, said: “Despite the new Government, I remain unconvinced that its initial policies will boost consumer confidence.
“While we acknowledge the significant challenges the Government faces, we call on the Transport, Business, and Treasury ministerial teams to prioritise creating a stable market environment. Industry urgently requires considered policies that provide security and confidence.”
The manifesto detailed how a review of powered light vehicle regulations is “essential” to encourage road users to choose suitable vehicles.
Currently, e-scooters are not regulated under UK law but can operate across the country. They are available to rent on a trial basis, which was recently extended until 2026.
Campbell added: “MCIA’s manifesto aims to position Britain as the global leader in powered light mobility.
“Properly implemented, our manifesto would not only secure the sector’s 58,000 jobs, but also restore Britain’s status as the home of motorcycle manufacturing and modernise vehicle regulations to drive innovation.”
He urged the Government to act now and to “realise the full potential of our sector".
Meanwhile the manifesto stated that even minor regulatory adjustments can help improve consumer choice and technology development in the UK.
But under the current regulations, they risk “stifling” innovation and preventing manufacturers from bringing new products to market, it warned.
MCIA said there needs to be a modernised regulatory framework that addresses existing safety concerns which have been steadily raised by residents.
Under current Transport for London rules, riders must be 18 or over and hold at least a provisional driving licence to be able to rent an e-scooter.
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Riders must be 18 to hire an e-scooter
PATo comply with the UK rules, scooters must not travel faster than 12.5mph with all first-time riders urged to engage in mandatory education on how to ride safely in the capital.
Riders who breach these rules can risk a fine of up to £1,000 if they do not comply with the laws.