The new mobility trends have turned electric scooters into one more element of the urban landscape in large cities. More and more citizens are using this type of personal mobility vehicle (VMP) to make their daily short-haul trips. According to the Spanish Federation of Personal Mobility Vehicles, three million Spaniards ride electric scooters daily through the streets of our country, confirming the success of a device that in a short time has gone from being considered a toy to becoming a new means of transportation.
The market offers urban electric scooters with a price range that is between 200 and 500 euros depending on their characteristics. The price to pay for a scooter is defined by the quality of the materials with which it is made, as well as by the autonomy it offers. Nor should we forget other aspects that should not be secondary when choosing a model, such as the characteristics of the wheels or the brakes, since these are two key elements for the safety of a vulnerable vehicle.
To play it safe when buying an electric scooter that meets our needs, the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) has prepared a study in which it reveals the best models on the market for less than 400 euro.
The consumer association recommends prioritizing the purchase of those models that include certain basic features. After the driving, braking and safety tests, he advises opting for scooters that have rear disc brakes, inflatable wheels and an anti-theft system. It also warns to take into account autonomy and weight.
The OCU recalls that electric scooters must have their maximum speed limited to 25 km/h to be able to circulate on public roads and to be considered personal mobility vehicles (MVP). For this reason, it asks for a clear name for electric scooters and denounces that models without speed limitation of 25 km/h are sold under the umbrella of MVP. This irregularity can end in a fine for speeding and the necessary subsequent adaptation of the engine, clarifies the OCU.
The organization reminds users that it is forbidden to drive on sidewalks, interurban roads, highways, dual carriageways and tunnels and that it is mandatory to wear a helmet. Electric scooter drivers are subject to the same maximum alcohol rates allowed by the Road Safety Law, as well as the prohibition of driving with the presence of drugs in the body. They also cannot carry passengers and it is not allowed to use the mobile phone or headphones while driving.
Finally, the OCU emphasizes that at night you must use a lighting system and reflective clothing to alert other drivers to the presence of an electric scooter on the road.
