Micro electric vehicle (MVE)
A micro electric vehicle (MVE) is a small electric road vehicle designed for the transport of a single person at a speed of <25 km/h.
It has one or more wheels and can be equipped with or without handlebars or a seat.
The most common micro electric vehicles are:
- Uniwheels;
- Gyropods;
- Electric scooters.
The electric motor must not exceed an output of 250W and the power supply must be cut off as soon as the vehicle reaches a speed of 25 km/h.
Where can I ride my MVE?
If you are travelling with a micro electric vehicle (MVE), you are considered a cyclist.
From the age of 10 you are allowed to ride and from the age of 13 you must ride in the areas designated for bicycles, otherwise on the carriageways.
Children under the age of 10 may ride on the pavement and other areas intended for pedestrians, provided they give way to pedestrians.
What rules do I have to observe with my MVE?
Is mandatory:
- The lighting of the electric micro-vehicle must be switched on day and night.
It is not permitted to:
- transport persons;
- towing;
- towing another vehicle.
Motor vehicle liability insurance or a licence plate are not required.
What equipment is required for MVE? (Text)
- acoustic warning (bell);
- the brake system;
- white, non-flashing light at the front;
- red, non-flashing light at the rear(*);
- maximum length of the MVE: 1.50 m;
- Maximum speed: 25 km/h;
(*) In poor visibility conditions and from dusk to dawn, as well as during the day when weather conditions require it, the red rear lights must be clearly visible at a height of at least 40 cm above the ground (can be replaced by an equivalent device/helmet worn on the back). - Helmet is strongly recommended but not mandatory;
- Reflective clothing is strongly recommended but not mandatory.
What equipment is required for the MVE? (Illustration - in French)
*Additional information on the lights on electric bicycles and small electric vehicles (01.03.2021)
According to the provisions of the Highway Code on electric bicycles and micro-vehicles, it is mandatory to equip each vehicle with a white continuous light at the front and a red continuous light at the rear.
Contrary to the announcement at the press conference on 26 February 2021, however, it is possible to fit an additional flashing red light, either on the body, on the vehicle or on a helmet.
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