NEW DELHI: The road transport ministry has proposed to tighten technical and safety norms for low-speed electric cycles and e-bikes with a maximum speed of 25 kmph and motor power below 600 watts. Manufacturers of these would have to get vehicles certified by authorised testing agencies before they can qualify for exemption from the Motor Vehicles Act to be treated as “motor vehicle”.At present, electric two-wheelers that have motor power below 250 watts are not treated as “motor vehicles” and hence don’t need registration. This definition is now being expanded to vehicles that have motor power up to 600 watts, which officials said is “realistic”.
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All these vehicles will be required to use only lithium-ion batteries instead of lead-acid batteries.As per draft amendments to Central Motor Vehicles Rules, such vehicles will have to be fitted with “suitable brakes and retro-reflective devices” for visibility. The draft notification said for pedal-assisted electric bicycles, the motor assistance must progressively reduce and cut off once the vehicle reaches 25 kmph or when the rider stops pedalling.The proposal is significant considering that low-speed electric two-wheelers have witnessed rapid growth as affordable urban mobility options, but many models have operated with limited regulatory oversight.
