Italy's regulations on electric bicycles

1、 Legal Definition and Classification Standards

According to the Italian Highway Law and the latest traffic regulations, electric bicycles must meet the following core conditions:

1. Technical parameter limitations
   • Maximum speed: The auxiliary speed of the electric motor shall not exceed 25 kilometers per hour (the motor will automatically power off after overspeeding).
   • Motor power: rated power not exceeding 0.25 kilowatts (approximately 0.34 horsepower).
   • Starting method: The motor must be driven by foot pedal (i.e. "manual+electric" hybrid mode).
   • Weight limit: The total weight of the vehicle (including the battery) must not exceed 55 kilograms.
2. Definition of illegal modification
   • If a vehicle is modified to accelerate without pedaling, exceed a speed of 25 kilometers per hour, or exceed the motor power limit, it is classified as a light motorcycle (subject to motorcycle regulations).

2、 Driving Qualification and Vehicle Requirements

1. Legitimate electric bicycles (non modified)
   • No driver's license required: Drivers do not need any driver's license.
   • No license plate/insurance required: Vehicles do not need to be registered, licensed, or have mandatory insurance purchased.
   • Age restriction: Minors are allowed to ride, but must comply with specific rules (see below).
2. Modified car (light motorcycle)
   • Driver's License: A two wheeled vehicle driver's license (such as an AM driver's license) is required, and applicants must be at least 14 years old.
   • Vehicle requirements: Must be registered, licensed, and purchase third-party liability insurance.
   • Helmet obligation: Drivers and passengers must wear helmets that comply with EU standards.

3、 Driving rules and restrictions

1. Speed limit
   • Main road: maximum speed of 25 kilometers per hour.
   • Pedestrian walkway: The speed limit is 6 kilometers per hour, and when crossing the pedestrian crossing, you need to get off and push it.
   • Bicycle lane: Priority should be given to using dedicated lanes, and if the lane is two-way, reverse traffic is prohibited.
2. Regulations on manned/cargo transportation
   • No passengers allowed: unless the vehicle is designed with dedicated seats (such as child seats).
   • Load restriction: The goods must be fixed on the frame or rear shelf, and it is prohibited to ride or hold items with one hand.
3. Night and visibility requirements
   • Lighting equipment: From half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise, in tunnels or during inclement weather, the front white/yellow light, rear red light or red reflector should be turned on.
   • Reflective device: A yellow reflective plate should be installed on the foot pedal and the side of the vehicle.

4、 Requirements for safety equipment

1. Wearing a helmet
   • Minors: Those under 14 years old must wear helmets (even when riding legal electric bicycles).
   • Adults: It is recommended to wear, but not mandatory (except for modified cars).
2. Vehicle equipment
   • Braking and turn signals: An effective braking system is required, and from 2022 onwards, turn signal lights and brake lights are required to be installed.
   • Reflective device: There should be clear reflective markings on the front, back, and sides of the vehicle.

5、 Legal responsibility and punishment

1. Punishment for illegal modification
   • Driver: If riding a modified bike, it is necessary to meet the four requirements of "driver's license+helmet+license plate+insurance" at the same time. Otherwise, a fine of 1890 to 7500 euros may be imposed and the vehicle may be impounded.
   • Manufacturers/sellers: Those who participate in illegal modification or sale of vehicles that exceed the standard will face administrative penalties and criminal liability.
2. Other violations
   • Speeding: Speeding within the speed limit zone is subject to a fine of 167 to 665 euros and may result in revocation of the driver's license for 1-3 months.
   • Violation of passenger/cargo transportation regulations: fines ranging from 41 to 168 euros.
   • Failure to install reflective devices: Riding at night without reflective plates will result in a fine of 41 euros.

6、 Special Scenario Tips

1. Takeout delivery
   • If used for commercial delivery (such as food delivery), the vehicle needs to be equipped with fixed shelves, and the insulation box must not block lights or reflective devices.
2. Use by people with disabilities
   • People with disabilities can use electric bicycles in bike lanes or pedestrian areas, but must comply with speed limits.

48V electric bicycle battery