Applus+ IDIADA: First laboratory designated for the certification of electric scooters in Spain

At the beginning of 2022, the State Traffic Office of Spain (DGT) presented the technical requirements manual for the certification of PLEV (currently available only in Spanish), which will enable the regulation of the circulation of these vehicles in Spain. The aim is to establish safety standards, by limiting their power and maximum speed, for a type of vehicle that is rapidly expanding in urban environments.

As specified in the manual, an electric scooter is a vehicle with one or more wheels, equipped with a single seat and propelled exclusively by electric motors that, by design, can provide a maximum speed of between 6 and 25 km/h (4 – 16 mph). They can only be equipped with a seat or saddle if they are provided with a self-balancing system. The manual also details other characteristics such as braking system, structural integrity, and dynamic behaviour, among others.

About the manual: Entry into force and transitional regime

Regarding the manual’s entry into force, it became effective on 22 January 2022. However, a transitional regime is established with the following timelines:

• All PLEVs marketed until 22 January 2024 will be able to circulate until 22 January 2027 without the need to be certified

• All PLEVs marketed from 22 January 2024 onwards must be certified

• From 22 January 2027 onwards, only PLEVs complying with the requirements described in the manual will be allowed to circulate

Steps to be followed by manufacturers interested in PLEV certification

Manufacturers interested in undertaking this certification must follow the steps described in section 31 of the manual, the first of which is to register as an authorised manufacturer/representative in the DGT register. Once the registration is completed, they can contact the laboratory in order to request a personalised quotation through our e-mail address: info@idiada.com.