The Call for Number Plates and Insurance on Electric Bikes

In recent times, there has been a growing demand from MPs and industry experts to implement number plates and insurance for electric bikes (e-bikes) in order to prioritize pedestrian safety. This push for regulation aims to ensure that e-bikes are treated on par with other vehicles, considering the potential damage they can cause in the event of a collision. With e-bikes weighing twice as much as conventional bicycles and some capable of exceeding the legal speed limit, concerns about their safety have become prominent.

Current Regulations and Concerns

As per the UK government website, individuals aged 14 and above can ride e-bikes that meet specific requirements. These electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs) do not require a license, registration, taxation, or insurance. However, there is a growing argument that the existing regulations for e-bikes may no longer adequately address safety concerns.

Incidents Highlighting the Need for Change

Tragic incidents have occurred recently, shedding light on the urgency for enhanced e-bike regulations. One such incident involved a 15-year-old boy named Saul Cookson, who lost his life in a collision with an ambulance while being pursued by the police. Another incident resulted in the deaths of two teenage boys, Kyrees Sullivan and Harvey Evans, in an e-bike crash. In 2018, a pedestrian named Sakine Cihan also lost her life in a collision with an electric bike.

Equality in Regulation and Safety

Ian Stewart, chairman of the Commons Transport Select Committee, emphasized the need to adapt regulations to new technologies and address concerns related to e-bikes, e-scooters, and driver-assist/self-driving technologies. Committee member Greg Smith advocates for fair treatment of all road users, suggesting that e-bikes and e-scooters, capable of achieving considerable speeds and causing damage to vehicles and injuries to people, should be subject to insurance requirements and tax liabilities similar to motor cars.

Industry Perspectives

Tony Campbell, chief executive of the Motor Cycle Industry Association, supports the review of regulations and suggests incorporating anti-tampering measures to prevent modifications of e-bikes for higher speeds. The industry recognizes the need for updated regulation to ensure the safety of riders and pedestrians alike.

The increasing demand for number plates and insurance on e-bikes reflects the growing concern for pedestrian safety and the need for comprehensive regulation. Tragic incidents involving e-bikes have underscored the urgency of addressing these concerns. As the landscape of transportation evolves with new technologies, it becomes imperative to reassess existing regulations and strive for equal treatment of all road users. By implementing appropriate measures, we can enhance safety and ensure a harmonious coexistence of different vehicles on the roads.