E-mopeds on bike paths: Danger for cyclists or necessary progress?

E-mopeds on bike paths: Danger for cyclists or necessary progress?

Lassallestraße, 1020 Wien, Österreich - The discussion about the regulation of e-mopeds in Austria is increasingly absorbed. Leonore Gewessler, the former Minister of Transport, was committed to bringing e-mopeds from the bike paths to the road, but failed with her project. The traffic light government, led by the Ministry of Transport, is currently examining the same approach. The ZIB2 moderator Armin Wolf recently addressed the uncertain feeling of many cyclists who are increasingly withdrawing from traffic to avoid dangers through electric mopeds. A pedestrian made it clear that e-mopeds belong on the street and not on the bike paths that are intended for cyclists.

The Ministry of Transport, which is now being headed by the Social Democratic Party (SPÖ), faces the challenge of developing clear regulations for electric mopeds, but this could take some time. Current reports show that e-mopeds and similar electric vehicles are increasing on Vienna's bike paths and becoming a security problem. The mobility councilor Ulli Sima therefore calls for a legal differentiation of these vehicles to ensure traffic safety.

traffic safety in focus

The problem is clear: characterless e-mopeds that are considered fully motorized vehicles, urge cycle paths. These vehicles, which also include e-scooters, are legally classified as a "bicycle" in Austria, but are not always allowed to drive without hesitation. E-mopeds weigh between 70 and 80 kg and often exceed the permitted speed of 25 km/h. Measurements on Lassallestrasse showed that 15% of electric mopeds drive faster than 34 km/h. Sima has made clear demands:

• Introduction of clear legal rules at federal level.
• A weight restriction for cycle path vehicles to a maximum of 60 kg.
• A construction type speed for e-small vehicles of a maximum of 20 km/h.
• Development of new testing and measurement procedures to check the legal provisions.

The dangers that are mainly created by fully motorized vehicles on bike paths are confirmed by traffic planner Harald Frey. In Germany there are already differences in the legal classification between muscle -powered and motorized vehicles. For example, electric mopeds are not allowed to drive on cycle paths. Vienna plans to address these differences at the next state traffic officer conference in June and to promote new regulations.

rules for electric vehicles

The use of electric scooters must also meet strict requirements. For example, pedestrian zones may only be used with permission and sidewalks and sidewalks should not be used in principle. The operation is only allowed on cycling systems, lanes by cycling, and intended in residential streets. The recurring regulations for these vehicles are always updated in the context of mobility initiatives.

The current regulations emphasize that electric scooters may have a maximum output of 600 watts and that driving speeds of 25 km/h should not exceed. In addition, no other people are allowed to ride, and it remains important to ensure the safety of all road users at any time. Rules of conduct for e-scooter users include wearing a helmet for children under the age of 12 and a strict alcohol limit.

The persistent debate about a binding regulation for e-mopeds shows that the need for clear security and regulatory standards is more urgent for cyclists and e-moped users than ever before. While the city of Vienna and the Ministry of Transport continue to work on solutions, it remains to be seen how the situation will develop with regard to electric mopeds and their use.