Laws and regulations related to electric bicycles in Hungary

According to the current laws and regulations in Hungary and EU standards, the management framework for electric bicycles is centered on technical standards, taking into account both safety and environmental protection. The specific provisions are as follows:

1、 Definition and Technical Standards of Electric Bicycles

1. The Hungarian law defines an electric bicycle as a two wheeled vehicle powered by pedals or handlebars, with an electric motor power not exceeding 1000 watts and a maximum speed of 25 kilometers per hour. This standard is consistent with some EU countries, but higher than the 250 watt standard commonly used in the EU. Vehicles that exceed this range (such as power exceeding 1000 watts, weight exceeding 35 kilograms, or speed exceeding 25 kilometers per hour) will be classified as "light motorcycles" and must comply with motorcycle regulations (such as registration, insurance, taxation, and holding a driver's license).

2. Key technical requirements

   • Motor power: The rated power is strictly limited to 1000 watts, and it is prohibited to improve performance by modifying the circuit or adapting the battery.
   • Speed limit: The motor must stop assisting after reaching a speed of 25 kilometers per hour and only retain the electric power assist function.
   • Design requirements: It must be equipped with a foot pedal, have manual riding function, and the body must pass safety tests such as electromagnetic compatibility and waterproofing (IPX4 standard).
   • EU certification: The product must comply with the EN 15194:2017 standard and bear the CE mark to indicate that it has passed the EU safety certification.

2、 Usage rules and driving permissions

1. Road traffic rules
   • Dedicated lane: Standard electric bicycles can be driven on the bike lane, but must comply with traffic signs and signal lights.
   • Mixed road: When there is no bicycle lane, it is advisable to drive on the right side of the motor vehicle lane, but it is necessary to maintain a safe distance and comply with traffic rules.
   • Prohibited areas: Entry into motor vehicle lanes such as highways and urban expressways is prohibited.
   • Overloaded vehicles: If the vehicle is classified as a light motorcycle, it must use the motor vehicle lane and comply with motorcycle related regulations.
2. Regulations on manned transportation
   • Adults can carry a child under 12 years old in a fixed rear seat, but must ensure that the child safety seat meets the standards.
3. Parking management
   • It must be parked in designated non motorized vehicle parking areas, and it is prohibited to block passages, fire exits, or affect the urban environment. Violators may face fines.

3、 Safety Equipment and Code of Conduct

1. Helmet requirements
   • Although Hungary does not have a mandatory legal requirement for wearing helmets, it is strongly recommended to wear them while cycling to improve safety.
2. Lighting and visibility
   • At night or in low visibility conditions (such as rain, snow, fog), the front and rear lights must be turned on to ensure vehicle visibility. The headlight power should be at least 3 watts, and the color should be white or yellow.
3. Code of conduct
   • Follow traffic signals, slow down and signal before turning, and slow down or stop to give way when passing pedestrian crossings.
   • Do not tow animals, drag cargo devices, or ride with both hands off the handlebars.
   • When crossing the motor vehicle lane on a road section, it is necessary to get off and push through the pedestrian crossing or crossing facilities.
   • Driving an electric bicycle under the influence of alcohol will result in penalties, including deduction of points or fines.

4、 Violation penalties and legal responsibilities

1. Punishment for technical violations
   • Modifying motors, batteries, or removing speed limit devices is illegal and may result in fines or even vehicle detention.
   • Those who use batteries with a voltage exceeding 48V or non factory certified batteries will be severely punished.
2. Punishment for driving violations
   • Warning or fine will be imposed for behaviors such as reversing, speeding, and running red lights. The specific fine amount depends on the severity of the violation, such as running a red light, which may result in a fine of 50 euros.
   • Those who refuse to accept fines may have their vehicles detained by the traffic management department of the public security organs.
3. Punishment for parking violations
   • Those who park vehicles in prohibited areas shall be ordered to make corrections and fined, such as 50 euros.

5、 Special scenarios and regional differences

1. Shared electric bicycles
   • Regular bicycle rules must be followed, and users must be at least 16 years old. Some platforms require scanning their driver's license or credit card for age verification.
2. Government support policies
   • The Hungarian government provides preferential policies such as car purchase subsidies and tax reductions for electric bicycles to encourage green travel. For example, purchasing an electric bicycle can enjoy a certain proportion of financial subsidies, reducing the initial purchase cost.
   • The government is also actively promoting the construction of charging infrastructure, and it is expected that by 2025, Hungary will achieve a widespread layout of charging stations to improve the convenience of charging for consumers.
3. Regional differences
   • There may be slight differences in the management of electric bicycles among different states in Hungary. For example, big cities such as Budapest may have stricter regulations on electric bicycles, and attention should be paid to the latest regulatory developments released by local traffic management departments.

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