Source · Select Committees · Transport Committee
Recommendation 11
11
Paragraph: 71
In our view, the speed of e-scooters should be suitable for the local environment they...
Conclusion
In our view, the speed of e-scooters should be suitable for the local environment they are deployed in. A “one size fits all” approach will not work. Speed limits in the trials can be determined at the local level by local authorities and, in the case of rental e-scooters, via ‘geo-fencing’ technology installed by companies. Operators should work closely with local authorities to plan and implement the most appropriate speed limits for rental e-scooters in local areas.
Paragraph Reference:
71
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government agrees. When considering what an appropriate maximum speed for e-scooters in trial areas should be, the Government looked at speed limits applied overseas and also consulted national stakeholders. The general view was that a maximum of 15.5mph was appropriate. However, the Government has made clear to local authority trial areas and their e-scooter operators that local knowledge should be applied to determine where speeds below this maximum should apply. For instance, in busy city centres or particularly contested pieces of road space where multiple road users come together. Trial areas have used their knowledge of local geography and specific local features to agree speed limits below the maximum based on this approach. And local areas are able to work with their operator/s to use geo-fencing technology to introduce variable maximum speed limits accordingly.