In France, the “acceleration” of an electric bicycle may result in a large fine and imprisonment

French lawmakers have passed law L317-1, which provides for severe penalties for the modification of electric bicycles. This type of transport in recent years has become very popular and has increased the number of incidents on the streets of French cities.

Especially unpleasant is the fact that electric bicycles belong to bicycles and move along bicycle paths, in close proximity to pedestrians. The collision of an electric bike with a pedestrian at high speed is fraught with serious consequences.

European standards stipulate that the maximum speed of an electric bike cannot exceed 25 km / h (for a separate class of high-speed electric bikes – 45 km / h) and this is taken into account by manufacturers, however, in the same models of bicycles delivered to the USA, the restriction is set in accordance with local rules at around 32 km / h. It is not surprising that European fast-driving enthusiasts will unlock the potential of their vehicles by making changes to their design and settings.

In accordance with the new law, for such actions the violator in France expects a fine of up to 30,000 euros and imprisonment for up to one year. In addition, a driver’s license may be suspended for up to three years.