Electric bicycles will need licences in South Africa

From the newsletter

South Africa has amended its National Road Traffic Act to classify electric bicycles with speeds of over 45 km/h as motor vehicles as part of road safety measures. It means that the bicycles must be registered and licenced to be legally operated, as well as the rider. Electric bicycles are fitted with electric motors to assist with pedaling and acceleration. 

• South Africa is the first country in Africa to introduce specific rules on electric bicycles. Other nations don't have specific laws for electric bicycles, treating them like traditional bicycles. However, as their adoption grows, more countries are likely to introduce regulations.

• Demand for electric bicycles in South Africa is growing significantly. Urban congestion and advancements in battery technology are making them increasingly appealing to commuters, especially in urban areas such as Cape Town.

• Our take: For electric bicycles to thrive in Africa, prices must first come down. Their cost remains prohibitively expensive across the continent, which means they are mainly treated as a luxury purchase... Read more (2 min)

More details

• Not every electric bicycle has the capacity to exceed 45 km/hr, which means not all of them will be affected by the change in law. The law change however comes at a time when they are transitioning from recreational gadgets to genuine modes of transportation, with an increasing number of South Africans adopting them for daily commuting.

• Electric bicycles offer a sustainable alternative to cars, particularly for short-distance travel. They help reduce traffic congestion, and are also often used for exercise. However, their rapid acceleration and relatively high speeds require careful regulation to ensure public safety.

• As demand for these bicycles grows in South Africa, it has attracted an increasing number of companies looking to corner the market. They include Switch E Bikes, BH Bikes South Africa, Southbound Bikes, Bike Addict to name just a few. Prices of the bicycles range between $1,200 and $6,400. 

• Across Africa, electric bicycles are gaining prominence.  Rapid urbanization in major cities like Cairo, Lagos, Nairobi and Accra has increased demand for micro mobility solutions like electric bicycles, motorcycles and tricycles. These transport tools help commuters navigate congested towns where cars are often stuck in traffic. 

• Electric bicycles also offer a more affordable transportation option compared to cars or motorcycles. The cost of purchasing and maintaining it is significantly lower, and the energy required to charge the battery is minimal compared to fueling a car. This makes bicycles an accessible option for a broader segment of the population, particularly in low-income urban areas.

• The main challenge for electric bicycles is the high prices compared to a traditional bicycle. Further, their load carrying capacity is low, making their use for last-mile deliveries limited. At the same time, many countries in Africa still do not have dedicated bicycle lanes, making cycling dangerous and discouraging potential buyers.  

Our take

• As South Africa adapts to the new regulations, it can draw lessons from other countries that have successfully integrated electric bicycles into their transportation systems. Engaging with international experts and adopting best practices will be crucial in navigating the complexities of this transition.

• South Africa’s regulatory changes reflect a proactive approach to addressing safety concerns while embracing technological innovation. As electric bicycles continue to gain traction, balancing regulation, public awareness, and infrastructure development will be key to harnessing their full potential.

• Urban planners and policymakers must also consider infrastructure adaptations to accommodate electric bicycles. Dedicated bike lanes, clear signage, and traffic calming measures can enhance safety and encourage responsible riding behavior.