Safety is one of the most important factors when deciding to purchase a modern electric scooter for personal transport. The Indian electric scooter market is expected to reach USD 5.09 billion by 2035.
With this growth comes a stronger focus on safety standards, legal compliance, and technology benchmarks that affect not just performance but everyday confidence on roads. An electric vehicle scooter that meets recognised safety norms helps riders stay protected, legally compliant, and more comfortable over time.
Let’s learn about the essential safety compliance standards and technology benchmarks found in every modern electric vehicle scooter.
Overview of Safety and Compliance for Electric Vehicle Scooters in India
Electric scooters must follow a set of rules that keep you and others safe on the road. Since electric scooters operate at higher speeds and use powerful batteries, they are treated like other motor vehicles for legal and safety purposes.
Every electric scooter with a top speed over 25 km/h or a motor power above 250 W must be registered and insured, and the rider must hold a valid driving licence.
In addition to legal registration, helmets are mandatory for every rider and passenger, irrespective of the vehicle’s speed. These basic rules ensure that riders start with the correct legal foundation before considering performance or convenience features.
National Standards and Safety Regulations
India’s regulatory framework now incorporates essential updates from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the Motor Vehicles Act. New standards, such as IS 18590:2024, focus on battery safety and electrical performance to ensure reliability across the electric scooter category.
Automotive Industry Standards (AIS) operate in parallel with these rules to ensure that every vehicle meets strict global compliance requirements. Certification by agencies like the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) verifies essential braking systems and frame strength for safety.
Road‑legal Requirements for Electric Vehicle Scooters
Every electric scooter intended for public roads must comply with key legal requirements:
- Registration, Licence, and Insurance
Electric scooters with faster speeds require registration with the Regional Transport Office (RTO). A valid driving licence is mandatory for scooters that can exceed 25 km/h, while lower‑speed vehicles under 250 W may be ridden legally without one. Third‑party insurance is compulsory, and comprehensive plans offer more protection in the case of an accident.
- Helmet and Safety Gear
Both rider and passenger must wear helmets that comply with safety norms. Continued enforcement of helmet laws helps reduce injury severity in case of collisions.
- Number Plates and Identification
Electric vehicle scooters must display the correct number plate format as per the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR). Registration plates help enforce safety and legal ownership. These requirements align with the standards set by the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 and the CMVR, and are subject to ongoing updates to improve road safety.
Battery and Charging Safety Benchmarks
Battery safety remains a core benchmark for electric vehicle scooters, given the energy density and fire-safety considerations of lithium‑ion cells. Electric scooter batteries undergo quality checks and certification by recognised bodies such as ARAI to ensure they meet safety and performance norms.
Charging standards in India adopt protocols such as IS 17017, which align EV charging safety requirements with international norms and ensure safe use across public and home charging environments. Using compliant chargers and adhering to approved charging practices helps reduce the risk of overheating, overcurrent events, and fire hazards.
Structural and Ride Safety Benchmarks
Electric vehicle scooters lack protective shells, making structural design and control systems crucial for rider safety. Assessments around braking efficiency, impact resistance, and frame strength are essential benchmarks in product testing. Specific crash-testing initiatives, such as the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP), currently focus primarily on passenger-car safety.
However, the emphasis on structural durability and braking reliability strongly influences broader expectations for electric vehicle safety across the market. Additionally, upcoming mandates, such as Anti‑lock Braking Systems (ABS) for all two‑wheelers, aim to reduce stopping distances and improve control during emergency braking.
Technology Benchmarks That Enhance Rider Safety
Modern electric vehicle scooters increasingly incorporate connected and smart features that contribute to ride safety and compliance:
- Navigation support helps riders plan safe routes.
- Geo‑fencing and alerts increase awareness of speed and zone limits.
- Remote immobilisation and theft alerts help reduce misuse and theft risks.
These technologies, while not always mandated by law, form part of a broader set of user‑centric safety enhancements that help riders stay informed and in control.
Safety First for Smart Choices
Selecting the ideal electric vehicle scooter involves balancing strict safety compliance with the advanced technological features that you require daily. Brands like Bajaj Chetak illustrate the successful integration of these critical elements, delivering a secure and reliable experience for every rider. You will appreciate the attention to detail found in the durable metal chassis and intelligent battery management systems.
These scooters represent a smart investment for those who prioritise long-term durability and economical performance for their daily city travels. Taking a personal test ride is the absolute best way to verify which electric vehicle scooter suits your specific requirements.
