Illegal E-Bikes and E-Scooters Targeted as Prague Steps Up Enforcement
During a targeted inspection, police found defects in almost 40 per cent of the electric vehicles checked. Modified e-bikes used by delivery riders are a particular focus
Foto: Policie ČR
Prague is stepping up inspections of e-bikes, e-scooters and other electric vehicles in cooperation with the police. The measures, particularly during the summer months, are intended to improve safety on roads and cycle paths, as these vehicles are being used increasingly by both Prague residents and tourists.
During the latest targeted inspection in Prague city centre, officers checked a total of 94 electric vehicles. Defects were found on 37 of them, mainly due to non-compliant technical conditions. Immediate fines totalling CZK 57,000 were issued to 21 riders. A further ten cases were referred to the relevant administrative authorities. In addition, six riders without permanent residence in the Czech Republic were required to pay security deposits totalling CZK 28,000.
According to the city, modified e-bikes used by delivery riders have become a growing problem. By law, electric motors may provide assistance only up to a speed of 25 km/h. However, some vehicles have been modified to reach significantly higher speeds, substantially increasing the risk to pedestrians, cyclists and other road users.
“One major problem is the e-bikes used by delivery riders. They frequently circumvent legal regulations and reach speeds well above the permitted limit. In doing so, their riders endanger not only themselves but also other road users,” said Prague Deputy Mayor for Transport Jaromír Beránek.
The city aims to crack down more consistently on illegally modified electric vehicles and bring regulations into line with the standards applied in other European countries. With the number of such vehicles continuing to rise, the authorities are seeking in particular to prevent serious accidents on cycle paths, in pedestrian zones and in parks.
To further improve enforcement, Prague plans to purchase a mobile rolling road testing device. The equipment would allow police officers to identify modified drive systems, illegal power increases and the correct vehicle classification directly on site.
According to the city, the targeted inspections will continue throughout the summer and into the autumn.
