In recent years, electric micro-mobility has revolutionized the way we move around cities, offering sustainable and innovative solutions for short journeys. However, the expansion of this sector has brought with it the need for clear regulations to ensure safety and integration with other means of transport. In this article, we will explore the current regulations (as of the date of publication of the article) governing electric micro-mobility in Italy and look at possible future evolutions.

The Current Status of Regulations

Italy has updated the regulations relating to electric micro-mobility, with particular attention to electric scooters, e-bikes, and other similar means. The most recent regulatory interventions, which came into force in 2024, aim to improve the safety of users and regulate the use of these vehicles in cities.

Electric Scooters

The regulatory updates of 2024 have introduced more stringent provisions:

• Speed limit: maximum 20 km/h on urban roads and 6 km/h in pedestrian areas.
• Helmet obligation: for all users, regardless of age.
• License plate and insurance: Electric scooters must be registered and insured to circulate on the road.
• Turn signals and brakes: Scooters must be equipped with directional lights and brakes on both wheels.
• Prohibition of wild parking: It is forbidden to leave scooters parked in such a way as to obstruct the passage on sidewalks or in other pedestrian areas.

These measures reflect the need to manage the exponential increase in the number of scooters on urban roads, ensuring safety for both users and pedestrians.

Electric Bikes (E-Bikes)

E-bikes, or pedal-assisted bicycles, are regulated by the UNI EN 15194:2018 standard:

• Maximum motor power: 250W.
• Maximum speed: 25 km/h.
• Motor operation: allowed only during active pedaling.

Being considered bicycles in their own right, e-bikes do not require a license plate, insurance, or license. However, any modification that allows the motor to run without active pedaling or that exceeds the permissible power classifies them as mopeds, with related regulatory obligations.

Other Micro-Mobility Vehicles (Segway, Hoverboard, Monowheel)

These vehicles must comply with specific rules defined by the municipalities:

• Permitted areas: cycle paths, parks, and pedestrian zones.
• Maximum speed: limited to 6 km/h in pedestrian areas and 20 km/h in other spaces.

Legislative Challenges and Opportunities

Despite progress, there remain areas where action is needed. For example:

• Urban infrastructure, such as cycle paths and charging points, is still insufficient in many Italian cities.
• The classification of some emerging vehicles, such as high-performance e-bikes and hybrid vehicles, needs clearer rules.
• The obligation to insure scooters has raised questions about its applicability to private vehicles and not only to shared ones.

The Future of Micro-Mobility Legislation

Predictions for the future of e-micro-mobility legislation include:

• Greater standardization of standards: To avoid discrepancies between municipal and national regulations.
• Tax incentives: To promote the purchase of sustainable vehicles and the conversion of traditional vehicles to electric.
• Infrastructure development: Upgrading of cycle paths, charging points and dedicated parking areas.
• Innovative vehicle standards: Such as long-range e-bikes or scooters with artificial intelligence.

Electric micro-mobility represents a concrete response to the environmental and logistical challenges of modern cities. However, its full potential can only be achieved through clear, uniform, and forward-looking legislation. Regulatory updates must not only address current challenges, but also anticipate future needs, creating an environment conducive to innovation and sustainability.

Ambra Italia will continue to monitor the evolution of regulations, offering compliant and updated solutions to promote more efficient and environmentally friendly mobility.