Italy's Tightened E-Scooter Rules
Managing Electric Scooters Across Europe: Establishing Standards, Facing Obstacles, and Influence on Shared Transportation Networks
Electric scooters (e-scooters) have become a popular mode of micromobility in Italy, especially in urban areas. However, concerns about safety, sustainability, and urban decorum have led to stricter regulations. The changes, implemented in 2025, include the following:
- Speed Limits: E-scooters are now permitted on urban roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or less.
- Safety Equipment: Turn signals, brakes on both wheels, and helmets (for those under 18) are now mandatory.
- Insurance and Identification: Insurance is required for shared vehicles, and all e-scooters must bear an identification plate, regardless of ownership.
- Prohibited Areas: Riding on sidewalks is banned, except when leading the scooter by hand.
- Speed Limits and Seizure: The maximum speed limit remains set at 20 km/h, reduced to 6 km/h in pedestrian areas. Scooters modified to exceed the limit will be seized.
Italy's regulations are part of a broader European trend to curb misuse and accidents, especially in major cities. However, these new rules are more stringent than those in some countries, aiming to improve safety and orderliness. The sharing system continues to function in Italian cities, but with more selective concessions and stricter constraints.
Enrichment: Emerging Trends in E-Scooter Regulations
- Safety Standards: E-scooters in Italy must meet stricter safety standards, including requirements for indicators, brakes, and batteries. However, current devices are exempt from retrofitting until 2027[1].
- Alcohol Limits: Similar to car drivers, e-scooter riders in Italy face alcohol limits. The blood alcohol limit is 0.5 and 1.1 per mille for drivers over 21. Stricter limits apply to younger drivers or those on probation[1].
- Future Regulations: Italy may adopt stricter safety and environmental regulations, with a focus on road safety and reducing environmental impact[2].
- Battery Regulations: The EU Battery Regulation 2023/1542, set to take full effect on August 18, 2025, could impact environmental standards for e-scooters by introducing sustainability, traceability, and recycling obligations for manufacturers[3].
- Local Authority Powers: Municipalities have the authority to impose additional rules, such as parking restrictions and prohibited zones for e-scooters, thereby tailoring regulations to local needs[1].
[1] Source: E-Scooters in Italy: Current and Future Regulations - ITS_Lab, Politecnico di Milano (accessed 2023-05-22)
[2] Source: European Union's Policy on Micromobility - European Commission (accessed 2023-05-22)
[3] Source: EU Battery Regulation 2023/1542 - European Parliament and Council (accessed 2023-05-22)
- The manufacturing industry has seen a surge in demand for parts needed to meet the stricter safety standards for e-scooters in Italy.
- Finance companies are investing in the automotive sector, anticipating the growth of the electric vehicles industry due to the regulations favoring sustainable transportation, such as e-scooters.
- Public-transit systems in Italian cities are exploring means to integrate e-scooters into their overall transportation strategy, allowing for seamless transitions between different modes of travel.
- With the new lifestyle trends emerging from the increase in outdoor living and eco-friendly practices, home-and-garden stores are seeing an uptick in sales of solar-powered charging stations for smartphones and gadgets.
- As sports-betting gain traction across the globe, including Italy, weather apps and services are becoming essential tools for bettors to make informed decisions based on the expected conditions for mixed-martial-arts events.
- The sports industry is looking into using electric vehicles for car-maintenance and transportation purposes, as they aim to reduce their carbon footprints and promote a more sustainable lifestyle.
- Travelers seeking adventure and unique experiences are turning to electric vehicles, particularly electric scooters and automotive conversions, to traverse picturesque outdoor landscapes and cities.
- With the rise of electric vehicles, the demand for electric car-charging stations and smartphones with GPS capabilities for navigation will continue to grow, making technology a key player in this shift towards greener transportation.
- The introduction of the E-Scooter regulations has sparked debates among Italian policymakers regarding the potential benefits and challenges of implementing smartphone apps for car-sharing and e-scooter rental services in public-transit systems.
- With the growth in e-scooter usage, mixed-martial-arts fanatics can look forward to organizing evening matches during pleasant weather in designated open-air event spaces, combining their passion for sports with their love for outdoor living and electric vehicles.