The rollout of the first traffic police electric scooter in Russia marked a notable milestone in urban enforcement. The prototype was created by MTS Urent’s kicksharing team and shown to audiences at the St. Petersburg International Law Forum, signaling a possible shift toward more efficient field mobility for law enforcement needs.
According to the company’s press service, if a dedicated unit within the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs were established to oversee how drivers of personal mobility devices adhere to traffic rules, the team would be ready to repurpose the prototype for official use. This statement underscored a potential collaboration between tech developers and law enforcement if there is political will and clear regulatory guidance.
The prototype builds on the commercial electric scooter Ninebot S90L, but is positioned as more durable and comfortable for long shifts and varied weather. It features two displays that present speed, battery level, and real-time information about slow zones, empowering officers with quick situational awareness. The design comes in white and blue tones, reinforcing its official aesthetic and visibility on city streets.
In parliamentary circles, proposals have floated a specific electric scooter policing program aimed at ensuring rider compliance with traffic rules. A member of parliament, Vladislav Davankov, submitted a formal appeal to the head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Vladimir Kolokoltsev. Critics, including auto experts, argued that creating such a unit would demand substantial funding and raise questions about its utility during winter months. They urged lawmakers to heed the guidance of the professional community and to consider practical, long‑term governance and maintenance needs before committing public resources.
The broader question remains: do electric scooters with license plates require registration with the traffic police? This issue touches on regulatory clarity, safety standards, and the balance between encouraging micro‑mobility and maintaining orderly roadways. As cities grow more congested and speeds of personal mobility devices increase, governments are increasingly weighing enforcement models that protect both riders and other road users while preserving budgetary discipline.