Regarding the electric scooters: what's the definition for electric scooter from Japan Government.
According to the Road Traffic Law in Japan, Electric scooters are a type of "tools of transportation" which belong to the category of "vehicles" , and are classified into vehicle categories based on the rated output of the electric motor.
Electric scooters with a rated output power of less than 600 watts are classified as motor bicycles according to the Road Traffic Law. Those that meet certain standards such as size and maximum speed are classified as specific small motor bicycles, while others are classified as electric bikes. Specific small motorized bicycles belong to general motorized bicycles.
In addition, if the rated output exceeds 600 watts, it belongs to the category of ordinary motorcycles stipulated by the Road Traffic Law based on the output.
Electric scooters belonging the category of specific small motorized bicycles do not require a driver's license when they are over 16 years old (driving is prohibited under 16 years old), and must comply with regulations such as wearing helmets as much as possible.
There are Traffic rules regarding specific small motorized bicycles (such as electric scooters) which is Partial Implementation of the Revised Road Traffic Law in Japan.
Starting from July 1, 2020, electric bicycles that meet certain standards will be classified as "specific small electric bicycles" and will be subject to new traffic rules, such as not requiring a driver's license.
(Note 1) The electric vehicle here refers to a vehicle powered by an electric motor, which belongs to the category of automobiles or motorized bicycles in the Road Traffic Law, and also includes the so-called electric scooters.
Vehicle classification is determined based on body size, rated output of electric motors, etc. Electric scooters belonging to the general category of motorized bicycles which require a driver's license.
Please make sure to check which vehicle category your vehicle belongs to.
What is a designated small electric bicycle?
This refers to projects that meet all of the following criteria.
The vehicle size must be less than 190cm in length and 60cm in width.
The electric motor with a rated output of less than 600 watts.
The speed cannot reach above 20 kilometers per hour.
Unable to change maximum speed setting while driving.
Must have automatic transmission (AT) mechanism.
Must be equipped with maximum speed indicator light.
Besides these,
Compliance with safety standards under the Road Transport Vehicle Law.
Sign automobile liability insurance contract (mutual assistance).
Must be accompanied by a logo (license plate).
In addition, when cycling, it is necessary to wear a cycling helmet for personal safety.
Whether a specific small electric bicycle meets safety standards is based on the presence or absence of a type certification plate issued by the local transportation bureau or a display (sticker) issued by a performance verification agency.
If the conditions are not met, even if it looks like an electric scooter, it belongs to the category of general motor bicycles or cars, so a driver's license is required.
For vehicles produced before the implementation date of the amendment (July 1, 2020), the installation of the maximum speed indicator light will be suspended until December 22, 2020. If the maximum speed indicator light is not installed before December 22, 2020, the model certificate number plate, performance confirmation sticker, or the designated logo (license plate) that must be installed on the small electric bicycle must be displayed.
The required signs (license plates) for small electric bicycles:
10 centimeters in length and 10 centimeters in width respectively。
Bicycles that do not meet these standards, even if their shape resembles an electric scooter, will not be classified as specific small motorized bicycles, and will still be classified as specific small motorized bicycles (regular motorized bicycles) even after July 1, 2020. The traffic rules will apply depending on whether you ride a bicycle or a car.
What is a special small electric bicycle?
It refers to a specific small electric bicycle that meets all the following conditions.
The maximum speed indicator light is flashing
Unable to reach speeds exceeding 6 kilometers per hour, etc.
Furthermore, electric scooters that do not belong to the category of specific small motorized bicycles must meet the following requirements.
You need a driver's license, must drive on the road, and must wear a helmet.
It is necessary to obtain a driver's license according to the vehicle classification under the Road Traffic Law. When driving on the road, it is necessary to use the roadway (not on sidewalks), wear safety helmets, and follow the appropriate mode of transportation for the vehicle category.
Must be equipped with braking devices, front lights, rearview mirrors, etc.
Devices corresponding to the vehicle classification specified in the Road Transport Vehicle Law are required. If the braking device, front lights, rearview mirrors, and other structures and equipment do not meet the safety standards for vehicle classification, the vehicle cannot be used for operation. (Cannot drive on roads, including sidewalks and lanes.)
Owning mandatory motor vehicle liability insurance (mutual assistance) contracts.
According to the Automobile Liability Protection Law, vehicles that have not signed automobile liability insurance or automobile liability mutual assistance contracts are not allowed to be used
Installing license plates
It is necessary to paste license plates according to the vehicle classification under the Road Transport Vehicle Law.
Above all, is the regulations issued by the Road traffic Law. any more questions, please contact the local government and find the suitable and customized the electric scooters from Gofunow for you.
Gofunow Tech Co.,Ltd.
