E-rideables: Don't ban them, license them!
Two high-profile fatalities in Perth as a result of e-rideable devices (electric scooter and a small electric motorcycle) prompted the WA government to launch an inquiry into e-rideables, considering the benefits and risks they offer.
The inquiry prompted calls for the importation of non-compliant devices to be banned, but the AEVA beleives this would be unworkable. Moreover, regulations to allow these vehicles to become road-legal already exist, and could be used to enact a level of accountability.
A similar inquiry is underway in Queensland, with much the same concerns; the Road Traffic Codes in all jurisdictions outlines what constitutes an e-bike, and an e-rideable, and what limits are placed on them. Generally anything with more than 250 W and/or capable of exceeding 25 km/h under power is considered non-compliant, and may not be ridden on shared paths or public roads. However there is nothing illegal about building them or importing them to be used in private settings.
Considering an electric bike, scooter or motorcycle takes a fraction of the resources to manufacture, and occupy so little space on our roads, e-rideables really need to be encouraged, not banned. With a bit of regulation, much of which already exists, the opportunities will far outweigh the risks presented by their abuse.
