Electric scooters have surged as a popular choice for personal mobility across urban settings. When the latest proposal package was being prepared, the aim was to present a comprehensive plan to government bodies. A report from a major news outlet notes Kirill Kabanov, a member of the Human Rights Council, as a key voice supporting the initiative. The Duma has acknowledged the proposal and stands ready to consider legislative backing that would shape how these devices fit into everyday life.
Discussion around the rules for operating electric scooters in Russia has intensified following a string of high-profile incidents during what many describe as the current scooter season. Authorities and safety advocates point to at least two fatalities and several other injuries connected to scooter use as a catalyst for policy action.
At the core of the Human Rights Council’s proposal package are several main ideas. Electric scooters would be designated as a higher‑risk mode of transport, leading to the introduction of license plates, age restrictions, and a dedicated driving category within the national rights system. A timely question centers on the federal status of SIM devices—including electric scooters, electric bicycles, gyroscopic vehicles, unicycles, and Segways. To date, these devices have operated in a gray area, with many users freely navigating streets while bicycles, deemed less risky, are directed to bike lanes in many places.
Presently, the Supreme Court’s precedent remains the sole binding guideline. It classifies electric scooters with power above 250 watts as mopeds, which would require road usage and a category M license for the rider. However, this interpretation is not codified in traffic regulations, and a moratorium currently blocks incremental changes. What is needed is a formal, comprehensive rewrite of the regulatory framework to provide clarity for riders, manufacturers, and municipalities.
Two parallel tracks for regulatory updates related to SIM devices are already under consideration—one spearheaded by the Ministry of Transport and the other by a regional chamber within the Civil Federation. Industry experts anticipate real reform in the near term. The policy discussions could shape who is allowed to ride, where they can ride, and what safety standards must be met. Potential reforms might limit motor power for younger operators or explore a phased approach that gradually expands access while ensuring safety. Some voices advocate for stronger age controls, while others emphasize the need for practical licensing pathways that do not overly burden responsible riders.
- Currently, the import of gyroscooters into Russia is subject to a maximum speed cap of 25 km per hour, a rule that aims to reduce reckless usage while still enabling efficient mobility.
- Emergency communications and route updates increasingly rely on social networks and mobile platforms, shaping how riders stay informed about road conditions and safety advisories.
Beyond the Russian context, these debates offer a template for North American cities exploring similar devices. Urban centers in Canada and the United States are watching closely how policy, technology, and public safety intersect in densely populated areas. The developments underscore the need for clear labeling, predictable licensing requirements, and access rules that protect pedestrians while preserving convenient mobility options for commuters and recreational riders alike. The conversation also highlights the importance of consistent enforcement, transparent standards for manufacturers, and ongoing data collection to measure safety outcomes and mobility benefits over time.
In the end, the goal is to create a balanced framework that recognizes electric scooters as a legitimate transportation option without compromising safety or traffic efficiency. As lawmakers, regulators, and industry players debate the best path forward, the broader takeaway is that thoughtful, well-defined rules help cities plan for a future where micro-mobility can thrive alongside traditional vehicles. The evolving dialogue reflects a shared interest in safer streets, practical rules, and a more inclusive approach to modern urban mobility.