Electric Bikes and Scooters: Professionals Grapple with Evolving Regulations, DGCCRF Report Highlights
A recent report published by the Directorate General for Competition, Consumption and Fraud Prevention (DGCCRF) on August 11, 2025, titled “Electric Bikes and Scooters: Professionals Poorly Mastering the Regulation,” sheds light on significant challenges faced by businesses in adhering to the increasingly complex legal framework governing these popular modes of transport. The findings suggest a widespread need for greater clarity and understanding among professionals operating within this dynamic market.
The DGCCRF, France’s consumer protection agency, routinely conducts investigations and controls to ensure fair commercial practices and product safety. This particular report focuses on the electric bicycle (VAE) and electric scooter (trottinette électrique) sectors, areas that have witnessed a surge in popularity and, consequently, a proliferation of regulations aimed at ensuring user safety, fair competition, and environmental responsibility.
According to the DGCCRF’s assessment, many professionals, including manufacturers, distributors, and repair services, appear to be struggling to keep pace with the evolving regulatory landscape. This difficulty stems from several factors, including the technical nature of the equipment, the frequent updates to standards, and the overlapping jurisdictions of different regulatory bodies.
Key areas of concern identified in the report likely include:
- Technical Standards and Homologation: Ensuring that electric bikes and scooters meet all relevant technical specifications, such as motor power limits, speed restrictions, battery safety standards, and braking system requirements, can be a complex undertaking. Professionals may not always be fully informed about the latest approved standards or the correct procedures for product homologation.
- Information Provided to Consumers: The report may highlight instances where crucial information regarding product specifications, safety guidelines, warranty terms, and legal usage requirements is not clearly or adequately communicated to consumers. This can include misleading advertising or insufficient detail about the capabilities and limitations of the devices.
- After-Sales Service and Repairs: The proper repair and maintenance of electric vehicles require specialized knowledge and adherence to specific safety protocols. The DGCCRF’s investigation might reveal gaps in the qualifications of repair personnel or practices that compromise the safety and functionality of the devices after service.
- Marking and Traceability: Regulations often mandate specific markings on products, such as CE marking, to indicate compliance with European safety standards. Issues related to incorrect or missing markings, as well as difficulties in product traceability, could also be a point of focus.
- Compliance with Road Traffic Regulations: While not directly overseeing road traffic rules, the DGCCRF’s role extends to ensuring that the products sold enable users to comply with these regulations. This could involve ensuring that products are not marketed for use in ways that are prohibited on public roads.
The DGCCRF’s report serves as a valuable reminder for professionals in the electric bike and scooter industry to proactively engage with and understand the legal framework that governs their operations. It underscores the importance of staying informed about regulatory changes and investing in training and compliance measures.
For consumers, this report signals the ongoing efforts by authorities to ensure the safety and fairness of the market for electric mobility solutions. It encourages a critical approach when purchasing these products and to seek clarity on all relevant aspects from sellers. The DGCCRF’s continued vigilance in this sector is crucial for fostering a responsible and sustainable growth of electric micro-mobility in France.
Vélos et trottinettes électriques : la réglementation mal maitrisée par les professionnels
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