WIREDGOV

The Northern Ireland Assembly Committee for Infrastructure yesterday considered proposals from the Department for Infrastructure to bring E-Bike legislation in line with the rest of the UK and with Ireland.

In Northern Ireland, E-Bikes, also known as ‘Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles’ (EAPCs), are classed as motor vehicles. Current legislation requires EAPCs to be registered, licensed and insured for use on public roads. Users must hold a valid or full driving licence and wear a crash helmet when riding.  However, corresponding legislation in Great Britain and Ireland enables many EAPCs to be exempt from these requirements.

The new Departmental proposals outline the requirements EAPCs must meet for use on public roads in Northern Ireland, without having to be registered, taxed or tested as a motor vehicle.

Chairperson of the Committee, Michelle McIlveen MLA yesterday said: 

“The Committee welcomes these new proposals from the Department to update the current legislation on E-Bikes. If these proposals and the forthcoming legislation encourage more people to use bikes, it will be a huge benefit, not only to the  health and well-being of local citizens, but also to the environment in reducing car usage.”