The eKFV is the abbreviation for Small Electric Vehicle Ordinance, which came into force throughout Germany on June 15, 2019.
Which vehicles does the eKFV cover?
Vehicles with electric drives, such as b.e-scooter or Segways belong to this newly created vehicle class under certain conditions. Such a vehicle must meet the following conditions:
The drive is electric. The maximum speed is a minimum of 6 km/h and a maximum of 20 km/h. The vehicle has a steering or holding rod. The rated continuous power is not more than 500watt and 1400 watts for self-balancing vehicles. The vehicle width is no more than 70 cm, the maximum height is 140 cm and the total length is limited to 200 cm. The vehicle may include theBatteries not be heavier than 55 kg.
Who can drive a small electric vehicle?
The minimum age for using a small electric vehicle according to eKFV is 14 years. ALeaderseem you don't need it. Since small electric vehicles are considered motor vehicles, they are subject to insurance. Insurers have a small one for thisInsuranceplaque introduced, which the owner mounts on the rear mudguard as a seasonal license plate (valid from March to the end of February of the following year).
Where can I drive a small electric vehicle?
Cycle paths must be used if they exist. If there are no structurally designed cycle paths or cycle lanes, the driver of small electric vehicles is also allowed to use the road and, outside of town, the hard shoulder. This also applies when the engine is switched off.
Important information, especially for e-scooter drivers: The e-KFV vehicles are only designed for one person. Anyone who takes a passenger on the running board of an e-scooter, for example, risks a fine.
What else should you consider when driving a small electric vehicle?
Driving under the influence of alcohol is not permitted. The 0 alcohol limit applies up to the age of 21 and for new drivers. But older people are also guilty of criminal offenses with a blood alcohol level of 0.3 per mille; from 0.5 per mille, you risk a fine of €500, a driving ban of one month and 2 points on your fitness to drive register.
Taking small electric vehicles on public transport is generally permitted if they do not endanger or inconvenience other passengers. This creates a gray area that leaves it up to each operator to decide whether to allow take-away or not. The special feature with their usually small dimensions and their low weight allows the owner of the small e-vehicles to fold or fold them up. This makes electric vehicles a useful companion when combining different means of transport. This includes, for example, bridging short distances on the way to work, the so-called “last mile mobility”.
Consideration in public transport is required
Other road users, e.g. Cars, for example, must maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 m in urban areas and 2 m outside of urban areas when overtaking, just like cyclists and pedestrians. Reckless driving behavior is not appropriate. Therefore, the general road traffic regulations also apply to the use of small electric vehicles, in particular the requirement of constant caution and mutual consideration. The vehicle must have an ABE (general operating license) so that it can be used on public roads. You can find out which vehicles are included according to the eKFV on the website of the Federal Motor Transport Authority.