The announcement hit users of electric scooters hard, a daily mobility option for thousands who rely on it to get to work, study, or leisure. The measure, put into effect on December 12, was described as unjust and lacking a clear rationale by many riders. In Galicia, dozens of people face the same dilemma: how to keep their commutes efficient when the railway system no longer allows their scooters on board. In response, an autonomous association was formed to unite those affected and press for dialogue with Renfe and government authorities. The group makes clear that it will pursue a resolution by all necessary means.
Before the ban, a rider could travel from Santiago de Compostela to A Coruña by train, then continue with the scooter for a smoother daily routine—work, gym, and social activities. A Coruña is noted as a city well-suited to scooter use, which makes the new restriction particularly disruptive for many residents. This change prompted the creation of the Galicia Electric Scooter Users Association, known as Aspega, which aims to amplify the voices of those affected and seek a constructive hearing with Renfe and the relevant administrations. The group has reported little response from Renfe to date and is calling for a formal meeting. The central message remains: the restriction targets Renfe, but other transport modes such as buses or planes can accommodate scooters, so the ban seems unnecessary to many users.
The Renfe board decided to prohibit electric scooter access on Cercanías, Regional, and also on Medium, High Speed, and Long Distance trains. The stated concern centers on incidents of battery fires linked to scooters on public transport. In response, riders question the evidence base for blanket bans, noting that there have been few injuries tied to scooters and arguing that the reported mishaps involved batteries being improperly handled rather than inherent risks with the devices themselves. The debate emphasizes safety, yet many argue that a regulated approach could be more effective than a full prohibition.
Aspega clarifies that it does not seek unrestricted use. Instead, it proposes practical rules to ensure safe transport. Suggestions include carrying scooters in fireproof coverings on trains and sealing batteries to prevent tampering. Other ideas floated include a licensing or certification system for scooter users to promote responsible operation. The association is developing a set of counterproposals to present to Xunta de Galicia and Renfe as an alternative to the ban that many users say is illogical. The group emphasizes that reasonable regulation, not broad exclusion, would better balance mobility with safety.
Ruben Suárez, a Compostela resident who studies and works in A Coruña, notes that mobility choices should help reduce car usage and emissions. He argues that electric scooters offer clear environmental benefits and contribute to cleaner cities by decreasing congestion and pollution. He stresses that a ban on scooters undermines this objective and calls for more thoughtful governance that aligns with the broader goals of sustainable transport. His stance echoes a growing sentiment among scooter users that responsible regulation is preferable to blanket prohibitions.
The movement for personal mobility devices is gaining traction across Spain. In major cities like Madrid and Barcelona, protesters have gathered in front of Renfe to voice opposition to the ban. Aspega does not rule out similar demonstrations in Galicia should talks fail to yield a practical path forward. Suárez suggests a willingness to act, even if that means standing alone, if necessary. The overarching aim remains clear: lift the ban on transporting electric scooters on Atlantic Axis trains and create a framework that allows safe, reliable, and environmentally friendly mobility for all who rely on these devices.
Ultimately, Aspega hopes to rally broader support and demonstrate that responsible use of electric scooters can coexist with railway safety. The group believes that a measured approach, grounded in clear guidelines and collaboration with authorities, will prevail and restore access to rail services for electric scooter users in Galicia and beyond. They view the situation as solvable and foresee a future where rail travel and electric mobility can function side by side.