Navigating the E-Scooter Laws in India and Beyond: Rules and Regulations

The rise in popularity of electric scooters has prompted governments worldwide to establish specific laws and regulations to ensure the safety and compliance of riders. In this article, we explore the e-scooter laws in India, the UK, and the FAME-II subsidy criteria set by the Indian government.

India's E-Scooter Regulations

Electric scooters in India fall under strict regulations aimed at promoting safe and eco-friendly travel. Here are some key rules and guidelines:

Power and Speed Limits

Electric scooters with more than 250 watts of power or speeds over 25 km/h must be registered with the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and require a valid driving license. These scooters fall under stricter regulations and are considered similar to motorcycles, meaning they must be insured and undergo regular inspections.

In contrast, scooters with 250 watts or less and speeds up to 25 km/h do not need registration or a license, making them accessible for riders aged 16 and above. However, unregistered scooters have a general speed limit of 25 km/h, and exceeding this requires registration and adherence to additional regulations.

Insurance and Additional Safety Measures

To ensure better accident protection, owners of e-scooters are recommended to have at least third-party insurance. High-security registration plates (HSRP) with a green background and white letters must be displayed by scooters registered after April 2019 to avoid any legal issues and ensure a safe ride.

Minimum Riding Age

The minimum riding age for electric scooters in India is 18. However, those aged 16 and older can ride scooters under 25 km/h without a license. It's crucial to stay updated on both national and state-specific regulations to avoid any legal issues while enjoying the convenience of e-scooters.

VIDA V1 Pro Electric Scooter

I have been riding the VIDA V1 Pro electric scooter, and it has been a great way to commute daily. The scooter comes with two removable batteries, providing a certified range of 165 km, and a top speed of 80 km/h. Ensuring understanding and compliance with the aforementioned regulations is essential for a safe and legal ride.

UK's E-Scooter Regulations

In the UK, electric scooters can only be used on private land with the landowner's permission. They are strictly prohibited from being used on public roads, pavements, or other public areas. This regulation is in place to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of pedestrians and other road users.

Joe Biden's 'Electric Universe'

There seems to be a contrasting view on e-scooter regulations, as highlighted by the phrase 'all electric universe.' This term refers to a perceived leniency in enforcing motor vehicle laws for e-scooters. While e-scooters are classified as motorcycles in some jurisdictions, they are typically treated differently due to their lower power and speed ratings.

However, the reality is that riding e-scooters without proper permits can lead to legal issues and accidents. The police do not overlook such violations, and it's essential to understand and comply with local regulations to ensure a safe and legal ride.

FAME-II Subsidy Criteria for E-Scooters in India

The Ministry of Heavy Industry and Public Enterprises in India has laid down eligibility criteria for electric vehicles (EVs) across various segments for the FAME-II subsidy program. The requirements are based on factors such as minimum top speed per charge, acceleration, and energy consumption efficiency.

For e-scooters, the FAME-II subsidy criteria specify that they must deliver a minimum range of 80 km on a single charge and have a top speed of at least 40 km/h to qualify for the subsidy. The subsidy amount varies depending on the price of the e-scooter, encouraging the adoption of more powerful and efficient e-scooters.