E-Scooter vs E-Bicycles vs E-Moped explained
E-scooters, e-bicycles, e-mopeds…although all electric powered, they’re not the same. So, what sets them apart? What do they have in common? And which ones actually need insurance? In this article, we’ll clear up the confusion and help you figure out which ride is right for you.
Electric Scooters
These are small, the lightest of the three, stand-on machines with two wheels and a handlebar powered entirely by electricity.
In the UK, electric scooters are classified as Powered Transporters or Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEV) category under the Road Traffic Act and treated as motor vehicles. Private electric scooters are NOT legal on public roads, cycle lanes or pavements unless part of a government trial scheme. They can only be ridden on private land (with the landowners permission).
To use one on public roads legally, it would need tax, registration, insurance, lights, and a licence; however private models aren’t built to meet these standards.
Electric Bicycles
These vehicles resemble traditional bicycles but although they are still pedal assisted, they make use of an electric motor to make rides easier. Some have throttles, and there are even some tricycle versions.
If they have a motor of 250W or below, pedal assist only up to 15.5 mph, no throttle and pedals that are usable, then they are treated like normal bikes and do not need tax, licence, insurance or registration. You can ride them on public roads, and cycle paths/lanes.
If they do not meet those rules then they are classed as an electric moped, and need tax, licence, insurance and registration to be used on public roads legally.
Electric Mopeds
These are seat-equipped, fully motor powered, throttle-controlled two (or sometimes three) wheelers that look more like traditional mopeds and are capable of higher speeds. These are significantly heavier than e-bicycles and sometimes resemble motorcycles.
They can be used on public roads. They are treated as motor vehicles in the L-category classification system (most are L1e-B) and must be registered with the DVLA, taxed , insured, have a number plate and meet road-vehicle standards (including lights, indicators etc).
Riders must have a valid licence at minimum a CBT (moped), with helmet and insurance. Electric mopeds typically have more power than e-bikes and can cruise faster than ~15.5 mph without human pedaling. The rider must be 16+ and like motorcycles, e-mopeds will need MOT testing, every year, after 3 years since the date of registration.
References:
https://www.drivingelectric.com/your-questions-answered/1379/electric-bike-and-scooter-regulations-uk-law-explained
https://www.rideto.com/blog/electric-moped-uk-law
https://www.gov.uk/electric-bike-rules