The use of electric scooters has been on the rise in recent months, causing significant controversy among pedestrians and other road users. As of January 22nd, they will have their own set of regulations in the realm of electric mobility which will govern their purchase and use moving forward.
A Personal Mobility Vehicle (PMV) is a vehicle with one or more wheels, designed for a single rider, and exclusively powered by electric motors (batteries up to 100 VDC with an integrated charger up to 240 VAC input). These electric motors can provide the vehicle with a maximum design speed between 6 and 25 km/h and can only have a seat or saddle if equipped with self-balancing systems.
The circulation of these vehicles is prohibited on crossroads, interurban roads, dual carriageways, motorways, and urban tunnels. Additionally, riding on pavements in urban areas is also prohibited. As they are considered vehicles in every sense, their drivers must adhere to traffic rules like any other road user.
Before hitting the road with your electric scooter, it's crucial to be aware of the rules that come into effect later this month. These regulations apply to all users of Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMV) during their urban travels.
According to the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT), in 2020, a total of eight fatalities were recorded involving these vehicles, with seven in urban areas and one in an interurban area where their use is currently prohibited.
While each municipality can regulate the circulation of PMVs, including electric scooters, users are obligated to comply with minimum conditions applicable to every region of Spain.
Furthermore, starting January 22nd, 2024, only certified personal mobility vehicles can be sold. The DGT has stated that this change in regulations aims to enhance road safety and protect the riders of these vehicles, as well as other road users.
They must be manufactured to travel at a maximum speed of 25 km/h, beyond which the motor will cease to propel the vehicle. They must have anti-tampering systems for both speed and power, along with a visible information indicator displaying speed and battery level.
All PMVs must have two independent brakes with a minimum deceleration of 3.5 m/s². Vehicles with more than 2 wheels must also have a parking brake.
PMVs must be equipped with front reflectors (white), side reflectors (white or yellow), and rear reflectors (red). Additionally, the brake light must be distinct or combined with the rear light.
All PMVs must have an audible warning (horn), and those intended for use with delivery of goods or services must also have a reverse warning.
PMVs with fewer than 3 wheels must have a stabilization system, such as a side stand or central kickstand, while parked to prevent them from falling in the middle of the streets.
The minimum established diameter for wheels is 203.2 mm, with a rough surface for traction. The use of smooth tires is strictly prohibited.
PMVs must have a double security system to ensure they remain securely folded and prevent inadvertent openings.
All PMVs must have a unique, permanent, legible factory marking located visibly, providing information on maximum speed, serial number, certificate number, year of construction, and brand and model.
PMVs must have a space at the rear to display an identification or registration tag. In addition to these technical characteristics, the manual outlines other quality-oriented features (structural integrity, electromagnetic compatibility, moisture resistance, battery protection against high temperatures, anti-slip surfaces, etc.).
DGT information video (in Spanish) outlining all the new regulations for PMVs
Even if not mandated by municipal ordinances, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended.
While not obligatory, having liability insurance is advisable for added protection.
· Driving an electric scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs may result in fines ranging from 500 to 1,000 euros, depending on the blood alcohol concentration. If positive, the vehicle will be immobilised, similar to other motor vehicles.
· Using a mobile phone or any communication device while riding incurs a fine of 200 euros.
· Fines of 200 euros are also imposed for wearing headphones, riding at night without lighting or reflective gear, or not wearing a helmet if mandated by municipal ordinances.
The Association of Technical Inspection Centers (AECA-ITV) suggests that electric scooters should undergo technical inspections to ensure compliance with safety criteria throughout their lifespan. They propose a three-part inspection covering over 30 points:
Verify that the scooter's speed falls within the regulatory range of 6 to 25 km/h.
Conducted using a brake tester, GPS, or predefined measurement distances, adapting to various ITV typologies.
Check for damage to the battery or body, assess the condition of the wiring, inspect for an additional battery, and measure its voltage.
Upon successfully passing the inspection, electric scooters, like other vehicles, should carry a certification sticker indicating their fitness for road use.
The Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) has established a webpage listing all certified Personal Mobility Vehicles. PMVs sold until January 21st, 2024, can continue to operate until January 22nd, 2027, even without certification. After this date, only certified PMVs will be permitted for use.
