U.S. Regulatory Changes: Electric Bicycles Are No Longer Defined As Motor Vehicles

Recently, the U.S. Department of the Interior issued final regulations on the use of electric bicycles in public places, and it is expected that the sales of electric bicycles in the United States will increase. This new regulation more clearly defines electric bicycles and no longer describes them as motor vehicles. This gives local land managers the right to use them on non-motorized vehicle lanes.

The new rules equate electric-assisted bicycles with a speed not exceeding 45km/h to non-pedal bicycles with a speed not exceeding 32 km/h. That is, the electric bicycle defined here will no longer be a motor vehicle.

The U.S. Department of the Interior stated in an official letter that this should mainly benefit the elderly and users with physical disabilities, which discussed the advantages and disadvantages of this measure in detail. This can also give a significant boost to the US electric bicycle market. Many European industry experts believe that the weak development of the US electric bicycle market is the result of restrictive laws. Until now, e-mountain bike riders cannot simply walk through the forest or ride on other trails. This is possible on electric bicycles in Germany or non-motorized mountain bikes in the United States.

The Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt told the U.S. "Bicycle Retailer": "Improving the right to use public property and expanding entertainment opportunities for all Americans is a government priority. The new regulations make us Of public land managers are able to allow e-bikes to enter the bike lane. This increases the possibility of using our public places to create lifetime memories."