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Electric mini-scooters get preliminary green light
SLOW-MOVING BILL:
The Transportation Committee has given initial approval for the small vehicles to be used legally, but proponents say it isn't moving fast enough
By Shelley Shan
STAFF REPORTER
Tuesday, May 22, 2007, Page 2
Lawmakers on the Transportation Committee yesterday passed a preliminary review of an amendment to would allow electric mini-scooters that operate on roads.
The mini-scooters would be regulated as a slow-moving vehicles according to the Road Traffic Management and Punishment Law (道路交通管理處罰條例). Drivers would be required to observe the same traffic regulations as those operating other slow-moving vehicles, but would not need to have a drivers' license.
Electric mini-scooters are those vehicles operating at less than 25kph and weighing less than 40kg.
The proposed amendment states that all mini-scooters must be inspected and certified by authorities before they can be used on roads.
Electric mini-scooters manufacturers and retailers have been lobbying the legislature to legalize their products for three years. They hope the amendment would take effect next month, when the Ministry of Transportation and Communications will begin enforcing an amendment on small-size or lightweight motor scooters.
Ministry officials, however, said yesterday they would need at least six months to prepare the necessary regulations once the amendment is passed by the legislature.
If the amendment fails, electric mini-scooter drivers would be required to have a driver's license.
Small or lightweight motor scooters are defined as weighing more than 70kg, with a horsepower of 1.347 or less and able to reach a maximum speed of 45kph. Operators must have a driver's license and wear helmets, while their scooters must have license plates.
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