EU-Wide Action Against Non-Compliant E-Bikes
In a significant move for the cycling industry, a prominent trade umbrella group has presented a position paper to the European Commission during a live policy discussion event in Brussels. This pivotal document aims to push for a ban on the sale of tampering kits that enable e-bikes to exceed legal speed limits and advocate for enhanced surveillance regulations concerning non-compliant e-bikes sold via online marketplaces.
The European Cycling Industries (ECI) group has established a robust track record in shaping European standards for bicycles and electric bikes alike. Historically, it has achieved notable policy victories and has been a steadfast advocate for cycling within Europe’s political landscape, promoting the benefits of cycling infrastructure and other essential resources.
As pressures mount from negative associations related to non-compliant e-bikes—often inaccurately classified as bicycles when, legally, they are unregistered motorbikes—the ECI is recommitting to the protection of the authentic electric bike category. This includes a concerted effort against tampering products that increase a bike’s speed post-sale.
Today marks the delivery of a refreshed manifesto directed at the European Parliament and member states, which calls for:
- A ban on EPAC tampering kits across the EU.
- Development of a European evidence base to understand the road safety and economic implications of non-compliant e-bikes.
- Strengthened enforcement of EU market surveillance rules, particularly for online sales.
- Investment in local enforcement, training, and technical resources to empower authorities to take action against non-compliant e-bikes.
While the UK is now outside the EU framework, its regulations have frequently mirrored European standards. A key challenge for all nations lies in persuading major online marketplaces to adopt stricter regulations on the products sold through their platforms.
Instances have emerged across Europe where swift action has led to the banning of harmful or illegal products from marketplaces, setting a precedent for similar efforts in the cycling sector, which aims to safeguard its reputation and ensure a safe, compliant marketplace.
Addressing Non-Compliant E-Bikes at the Source
Accompanying the manifesto, the ECI is reasserting its commitment to the prevention of e-bike tampering. A new position paper has been published, establishing a technical benchmark outlining effective anti-tampering protections for the first time.
This initiative by the bicycle industry emphasizes what constitutes “state-of-the-art” anti-tampering technology and what does not meet industry standards. Detailed recommendations for manufacturers include implementing cryptographically verified software updates with anti-rollback features, secure authentication of components, and robust logging mechanisms for critical parameter changes.
The report highlights the substantial stakes involved, noting that electric bikes now account for 70% of bicycle sales in the Netherlands and over half in Germany. As the popularity of electric bikes soars—simplifying transport and reducing costs—the electric mountain bike sector is also experiencing significant growth.
The European Cycling Industries asserts that the implications of these developments extend well beyond individual companies. The cycling value chain in the EU supports approximately 1.3 million jobs and contributes €21 billion to the EU GDP, spanning over 1,000 small and medium-sized enterprises. Thus, maintaining a secure and compliant e-bike market is crucial both for consumer safety and the health of a vital European industrial ecosystem.
The timing of this position paper aligns with EU reform initiatives seeking to close what is perceived as an “accountability gap” for online sellers based outside the bloc. These reforms are also set to incorporate the General Product Safety Regulation and the Digital Services Act.
Paul Walsh, CEO of ECI, emphasized, “The 2021 commitment established that this industry does not accept tampering. Our Position Paper takes this a step further by providing manufacturers with a concrete benchmark for design and offering a reference point for authorities and standardization bodies to assess genuine protection systems.”
Work on the underlying standards is advancing, with ongoing reviews of existing regulations to align with cybersecurity requirements that include anti-tampering provisions. With future amendments expected, a deeper revision is also underway.
Sources
- European Cycling Industries Position Paper
- EU General Product Safety Regulation
- Digital Services Act
- Market surveillance regulatory updates
- Industry reports on e-bike sales and compliance standards
