HEALTHPLAN MAGAZINE

As of January 2024, Spain is taking a significant step towards enhancing road safety and regulating the use of electric scooters and other personal mobility vehicles (PMVs). The Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has published the latest regulations, mandating that all existing electric scooter models and other PMVs must be officially approved to circulate legally on Spanish roads.

Under the new guidelines, all PMVs that are currently available in the market must come from certified brands and models, listed on the traffic authority's website (www.dgt.es). This measure aims to ensure that consumers can make informed choices about the safety and compliance of the vehicles they choose to purchase.

To address the variety of PMVs on the market, the regulations will provide a moratorium for certain non-certified vehicles, including skateboards and other non-conforming PMVs. These uncertified PMVs will be allowed to continue circulating until January 2027, providing manufacturers and users with ample time to transition to compliant vehicles.

The regulations have set specific standards to ensure that personal mobility vehicles are safe and suitable for road use. To meet these standards, the maximum speed for PMVs must be within the range of six to 25 km/h, striking a balance between user convenience and road safety. Additionally, the power of PMVs without self-balancing capability must not exceed 1,000 W, while PMVs with self-balancing capability should not surpass 2,500 W.

Weight and length restrictions have also been imposed to maintain control and stability. PMVs must weigh less than 50 kg and have a maximum length of two metres. These limitations aim to prevent unwieldy and oversized vehicles from posing hazards to both riders and pedestrians.

Ensuring the safety of riders and others on the road is of paramount importance, which is why the regulations mandate that all PMVs must be equipped with two independent brakes. This requirement aims to improve stopping capabilities, allowing riders to react effectively in case of emergencies.

For PMVs with less than three wheels, a stabilisation system is required to be in place while parked, enhancing stability during stationary periods. Moreover, the use of smooth tires is prohibited, as it can lead to reduced traction and compromised control, particularly on uneven surfaces.

In order to enhance visibility, personal mobility vehicles must also be equipped with appropriate lighting. This includes mandatory front lights and rear lights, ensuring that riders are visible to other road users during both day and night. Additionally, a brake light is required to alert those behind the rider of their intention to slow down or stop.

With the new regulations in place, Spanish authorities are demonstrating a commitment to creating a safer environment for all road users. By setting clear standards for PMVs, consumers can make more informed choices, while manufacturers have clear guidelines to adhere to when producing these vehicles.

Source: Sur In English