Serious concerns have been raised over the safety of electric scooters amid reports of battery fires, accidents, and inadequate insurance coverage. Recent incidents across Cyprus, particularly in Larnaca, have highlighted regulatory gaps that have prompted calls from politicians, safety officials, and industry representatives for urgent reform instead of outright bans.
Injuries and Incidents on the Rise
Riders have faced injuries in collisions with vehicles and pedestrians, with reports also emerging of scooters’ batteries catching fire. Although official statistics on these incidents remain unclear, the situation has intensified discussions surrounding safety, liability, and accountability. The transport ministry has stated that a ban on electric scooters is not being considered, but there is increasing pressure for regulation.
Political Voices Call for Reform
Dipa MP Marinos Moushioutas emphasised that banning electric scooters would not resolve the underlying issues. Instead, he called for the enforcement of existing legislation to ensure mandatory insurance and safe operational areas for scooters. Moushioutas noted a significant gap in victim protection, specifically regarding compensation for accidents, given the lack of insurance coverage.
“There is no temporary solution for accidents and damages because there is no insurance coverage,” he said. “We are trying to examine if insurance can be included, so that if the other vehicle, whether a motorcycle or car, is not at fault, compensation is possible.”
Proposed Changes and Legislative Challenges
While Moushioutas confirmed that a bill proposing these changes has been put forward, it remains unimplemented. He pointed out previous legislation approved two to three years ago regarding scooter use, which has not been put into practice. With around 2,000 complaints received by the police regarding scooter-related incidents, he noted the difficulty in controlling traffic across Cyprus.
“We agree there must be mandatory insurance for scooter users,” he added. “The aim is not abolition, but to enforce existing legislation, so that they operate only in permitted areas and safely.”
Learning from International Models
Green Party president and MP Stavros Papadouris suggested that Cyprus could benefit from looking at international models, specifically referencing Germany, where each e-scooter is registered, receives number plates, and has mandatory liability insurance. He stressed the importance of pedestrian safety and pointed out that e-scooters are not allowed on pavements, yet violations are rampant.
“The problem lies with private scooters, which are imported without checks or certification,” he said. “There needs to be cooperation with customs so that only certified vehicles meeting European standards are allowed in.”
Battery Safety and Fire Risks
The safety concerns surrounding electric scooters also extend to the batteries used to power them. Experts have warned that cheap, low-quality, or uncertified batteries and chargers significantly increase the risk of fires. Koulla Mesaritou, a press officer from the fire service, mentioned that incidents have been linked to batteries from specific shops and modifications made by users.
“We suspect it may be due to modifications by users or uncertified batteries and lights that are purchased,” she stated. “Any legislative framework that reduces such incidents is positive.” Mesaritou welcomed the potential for reform, emphasising that market control and inspection could enhance product safety.
Government’s Stance on Regulation
The transport ministry, represented by executive engineer Haris Christodoulou, has reiterated that a blanket ban on electric scooters is not being considered. He pointed out legislation passed in July 2022 that aims to establish a strict framework prioritising road safety over mobility. However, he acknowledged that enforcement remains a challenge.
“If the legislative framework were under proper enforcement, there would be no problem,” he said. “We call on all stakeholders, primarily municipal authorities, to contribute to policing and licensing rental companies.”
Rental Companies and Insurance Practices
Christiana Xenofontos, director at V+O Communication representing Bolt, highlighted the measures taken by rental companies. Bolt ensures that all electric scooters carry a unique registration number, a QR code, and a vehicle identification number, in addition to providing personal accident insurance for riders and liability coverage for third-party damages.
“Users involved in incidents can contact our customer service via the app for guidance,” she stated. “Each case is assessed individually.” However, she stressed the significant difference between regulated rental scooters and unregulated private scooters.
The Path Forward for Electric Scooters in Cyprus
The ongoing debate regarding electric scooter safety in Cyprus reflects a shared consensus among MPs, the transport ministry, safety officials, and the micromobility industry: reform is essential. As Moushioutas reiterated, “We agree there must be mandatory insurance for scooter users. The aim is not abolition, but to enforce existing legislation, so that they operate only in permitted areas and safely.”
