New rc auto decree, Approved by the Council of Ministers, it incorporates the 2021 European Parliament Directive and introduces a number of new features. Among the most significant changes have emerged related to compulsory civil liability (RC) insurance for certain “light electric vehicles”, with a special focus on scooters.
What is interesting is that the range of these vehicles currently does not exist, as stated in the official press release of the Ministry of Trade and Made in Italy. The obligation to equip these vehicles with identification plates is not mentioned, at least in the official press release. However, it is important to underline that every vehicle subject to compulsory insurance must be able to be detected, identified and recorded by a police officer. Therefore, it is likely that the obligation to equip these vehicles with license plates will be introduced in parallel with insurance.
Light electric vehicles, what are they
The motor insurance decree introduces an obligation to insure for certain “light electric vehicles”, which will be detailed in a later implementation decree. Currently, the Highway Code presents different types of vehicles in Article 47, but does not provide any specific definition for light electric vehicles. However, there are existing categories that may be relevant in this context. For example:
- Category L1e: This includes two-wheelers with electric motors Maximum power up to 4 KW and maximum speed 45 km/h.
- Category L2e: This includes electric tricycles with maximum power Up to 4kW and maximum speed 45km/h.
- Category L6e: This includes unladen electric quadricycles weighing up to 350 kg (excluding battery) and those Maximum power up to 4kW, with maximum speed 45km/h.
- Category L7e: This will include electric quadricycles weighing 400 kg (except battery) Engine power up to 15 kW.
The precise definition of “light electric vehicles” subject to insurance liability will be specified in a subsequent implementing decree, which will provide clarity on the scope of the law and the categories of vehicles covered.
How does scooter insurance work?
Amendments to the Insurance Code now establish mandatory insurance for “light electric vehicles” that are propelled entirely by the mechanical force of their own engine. This insurance liability applies only when The maximum speed of the vehicle exceeds 25 kilometers per hour Or the maximum net weight is more than 25 kg and the speed is more than 14 kilometers per hour.
This definition probably also includes electric scooters. It is important to note that there is no difference depending on the power of the electric motor, nor whether the scooter is stationary or actually in use, whether on public roads or in private places: insurance is mandatory in any case.
e-bike insurance
The difference between an electric scooter and an electric bicycle, such as an e-bike, is often based on the vehicle’s propulsion mode. In the case of e-bikes, the electric motor provides pedal assist rather than complete replacement. This feature, when e-bikes comply with regulations, can exempt them from the insurance requirement for light electric vehicles powered only by engine power.
opposite of this, For golf carts and similar vehicles, which can be operated entirely by electric motor power without the need for human input, Compulsory insurance may apply, Especially if they meet the weight and speed criteria specified in the regulation.
Regulation in this area may vary depending on the specific laws and regulations of the country concerned. Therefore, it is important to refer to the specific provisions of local laws or implementing decrees to obtain detailed information on mandatory insurance coverage for this type of vehicles.