ÖAMTC Test: All E-Scooters Exceed Power Limits
A recent ÖAMTC test reveals ten e-scooter models exceed Austria's 600-watt power limit, posing legal and insurance risks for riders.
An ÖAMTC test of ten e-scooter models found that every unit exceeded the 600-watt power limit mandated for public roads in Austria. While Austrian law restricts design speed to 25 km/h and motor output to 600 watts, most tested models featured manufacturer-specified maximum outputs over 1,000 watts. Unlike Germany, which uses rated continuous power as a metric, Austria lacks a registration requirement for these vehicles. Using non-compliant scooters can result in administrative fines and significant liability or insurance issues. ÖAMTC traffic lawyer Matthias Wolf and the organization are now calling for a round table with ministries, retailers, and manufacturers to review current regulations. The ÖAMTC also suggests reconsidering a helmet requirement for riders to improve safety amid the legal review.