In recent news from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, an electric scooter manufacturer was hit with a hefty fine of Rs 1 lakh after a routine traffic check revealed the vehicle exceeded prescribed speed limits and did not adhere to safety standards. This incident is part of a larger effort by authorities to enforce compliance with safety guidelines among electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers. Amid growing concerns over e-vehicle safety, the government is prioritizing stricter regulations for EVs to ensure public safety as the country moves toward greater adoption of electric mobility.
A Wave of Safety Concerns for Electric Vehicles
While electric scooters and vehicles have become popular due to their eco-friendly benefits and government incentives, a spate of recent incidents, including fires and battery explosions, has raised concerns over their safety. Many e-vehicle models on the market may lack essential safety features, leading to the risk of accidents and malfunctions. Despite widespread government advocacy for electric mobility, these incidents highlight the need for stringent quality checks and public awareness of EV safety measures.
The initial enthusiasm for EVs is slowly waning as customers become more cautious about the potential risks, particularly in models that do not meet safety standards. Authorities are responding by enforcing strict measures against non-compliant manufacturers.
The Incident in Bareilly: Rs 1 Lakh Fine
The recent case in Bareilly involved an e-scooter rider caught speeding at over 40 km/h—above the permitted limit for electric scooters designed for younger riders. Upon investigation, transport officials found that the manufacturer of the e-scooter had violated essential safety regulations. In response, the Bareilly Transport Department imposed a fine of Rs 1 lakh on the company for non-compliance. This incident underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing safety compliance among EV manufacturers and highlights the financial consequences of cutting corners on safety standards.
What Do the Rules Say?
The current regulations for electric two-wheelers are in place to ensure both rider safety and vehicle reliability:
Minimum Age Requirement: Individuals must be at least 18 years old to operate any two-wheeler without restrictions. However, exceptions exist for low-speed electric bikes.
Regulations for Younger Riders: Riders aged 16 to 18 can legally operate electric two-wheelers under specific conditions:
The vehicle’s maximum speed must not exceed 25 km/h.
The power output should be below 250W.
Electric scooters or bikes that exceed these limits are subject to strict fines, and manufacturers are expected to comply with these safety regulations to avoid hefty penalties.
Separate Incident: Rs 42,550 Fine for Expired Permits
In another case in Bareilly, authorities discovered violations involving a vehicle used by Krishna Driving Training School for instructional purposes. The vehicle was found to be operating with expired permits, fitness certificates, and insurance. Authorities promptly seized the vehicle and imposed a Rs 42,550 fine on the driving school for ignoring these crucial requirements.
Such incidents demonstrate the authorities’ commitment to enforcing compliance, not only among electric scooter manufacturers but across all vehicles, ensuring that operators maintain proper documentation and certifications.
The Road Ahead for Electric Vehicles
With electric vehicle usage on the rise, these incidents emphasize the importance of compliance with safety standards and the consequences of neglecting them. Authorities continue to stress the importance of ensuring quality and reliability in e-vehicles while also raising public awareness on safe riding practices. As electric mobility becomes more popular, increased scrutiny on manufacturers will be essential to maintain safety, ensuring the nation’s shift toward sustainable transportation is both responsible and reliable.