The call for a ban on non-compliant e-rideable devices and conversion kits in Western Australia has gained momentum, with the Motor Trade Association of Western Australia (MTA WA) and the Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) advocating for stricter regulations. MTA WA Group CEO Stephen Moir emphasized the urgent need to halt the sale of such products, citing safety concerns for riders and pedestrians alike.
Recent incidents and accidents have prompted these industry bodies to push for measures such as enforcing the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 more rigorously, mandating registration for e-bikes used commercially, and imposing age and licensing restrictions on high-powered models. Additionally, penalties for businesses enabling the use of non-compliant vehicles and a public education campaign on e-bike compliance and road safety have been proposed.
Stephen Moir highlighted the risks posed by devices exceeding speed limits or weight restrictions, stating that these modifications create hazardous conditions and contribute to road accidents. The misuse of conversion kits to enhance the performance of e-rideables beyond legal limits has raised concerns about the safety and legality of these vehicles.
Under existing regulations, e-bikes are required to provide assistance up to 25 km/h, and any alterations that surpass this threshold render the devices non-compliant. This unauthorized modification transforms e-bikes into unlicensed motorbikes, endangering users and the community at large.
The MTA WA urged consumers to exercise caution when purchasing e-rideable devices or conversion kits, emphasizing the importance of complying with safety standards and legal requirements. Misleading product labeling, such as ‘off-road use only,’ has added to the confusion, as it fails to clarify where these products can be legally operated.
In light of the mounting safety risks and regulatory concerns surrounding e-bikes and conversion kits, industry leaders are calling for immediate action to prevent further accidents and tragedies. The need for stringent measures to curb the sale and use of non-compliant products is crucial to safeguarding public safety and reducing the incidence of unlawful modifications.
As the debate on e-bike regulations intensifies, stakeholders in the automotive industry are aligning their efforts to address the challenges posed by non-compliant devices and aftermarket modifications. By advocating for stricter enforcement and greater public awareness, these organizations aim to create a safer environment for e-bike users and pedestrians on the roads.
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