New law rolls out in Oxford e-Scooter trial

Oxford, England – Oxford's electric scooter scene is evolving with new laws and expansions. Here's everything you need to know about these changes:

Program overview: Modern beginnings to a flourishing program

In a move to revolutionize urban mobility, Oxford has embraced the future with its electric scooter (e-scooter) trial, a project closely monitored and extended by the Department for Transport. This initiative, which started in February 2021 as part of the Emergency Active Travel Plan, has now grown to include over 850 e-scooters and 62,000 registered users, marking a significant shift in local transportation habits.

However, it's crucial to note that privately owned e-scooters remain illegal for use on public roads, cycle lanes, or pavements in Britain. Legality is confined to those hired through these trials.

First launched in Headington with just 25 e-scooters, the program reflects a response to the challenges posed by COVID-19, promoting a socially distanced transport solution. The trial, initially set to conclude earlier, has now been extended thrice and is scheduled to end in May 2024. Managed by Voi Technology, the trial operates under stringent regulations issued by the Secretary of State, ensuring each e-scooter meets approved vehicle standards.

New requirements for users

Effective December 5, users interested in hiring e-scooters are required to provide their name, driving license (with Category Q entitlement), and a photograph for verification. This step is crucial for Voi, the operator, to ensure compliance with legal standards and to maintain records accessible for police verification.

Prospective riders can obtain a provisional license within a week through an online application. Once obtained, Voi's app requires a rigorous verification process, utilizing Onfido's sophisticated technology. This system involves a photo-based ID, a selfie, and AI algorithms to authenticate the user's identity and license. Importantly, riders are mandated to complete this verification step in the app before they can initiate their first ride.

This enhanced verification is in addition to existing regulations, which stipulate that riders must be at least 18 years old and comply with specific usage rules. These include prohibitions against riding on pavements and operating e-scooters under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The scooters are speed-limited to 12.5 mph, with a no-ride zone feature that reduces speed to 3 mph in restricted areas. Moreover, e-scooters must be parked in designated bays to maintain order and accessibility.

Voi has also implemented a three-strike policy to enforce responsible usage. This policy includes escalating consequences for rule violations: a week-long block for the first strike, a month-long block and mandatory completion of the Ride Safe Academy for the second strike, and permanent account blocking after the third.

Safety and legal concerns

Safety concerns around e-scooters have been a topic of ongoing discussion. The city has witnessed a significant increase in e-scooter-related injuries, nearly doubling from 2021 to 2022. Law enforcement agencies have been vocal about the risks associated with the use of private e-scooters on public roads and spaces, emphasizing their current illegality and the potential for confiscation.

In light of these concerns, the trial's scope remains limited to rental e-scooters, with privately owned e-scooters still prohibited on public property.

However, for those who can use scooters on private property or in regions where their use is more widely permitted, you can take advantage of UNAGI's scooter subscription program. This program offers a low monthly rate starting at just $39, much less than the cost of an outright scooter purchase. It also includes flexible terms with no long-term contract, the option to cancel anytime, fast and free delivery, and the security of maintenance and theft insurance.

A trial reflecting a changing landscape

As the trial nears its end in May 2024, the data, experiences, user adherence to regulations, and safety statistics from Oxford's e-scooter program and other 23 towns and cities will be key in shaping the future of urban mobility, not just in Oxford but across the UK and beyond.