The first legally approved e-scooter has been launched in the Netherlands, priced at €1,900.
The Dutch government has granted approval for the first electric scooter to be used on public roads and bike lanes, representing a careful yet important change in the nation’s strict regulations regarding micromobility.
Named Selana Alpha and created by the startup Selana, the scooter has recently received authorization from the national transport authority (RDW) for road use. Consequently, the e-scooter has obtained its initial blue license plate, signifying that it can now legally operate as a light motor vehicle.
For co-founders Chingiskhan Kazakhstan and Max Schalow, the license plate signifies the culmination of a lengthy process to legalize their scooter. "After 6 years of hard work, the day has finally come!" Schalow stated on LinkedIn. "Selana Alpha is now legal to ride on public bike lanes in the Netherlands."
The scooter features 10-inch air tires, dual mechanical drum brakes, an electronic regenerative brake, full LED lighting with turn signals, and a smartphone-controlled locking mechanism.
Users can anticipate a maximum speed of 25 km/h (as per regulations) and a range of 45–60 km. It is equipped with a 576 Wh LG lithium-ion battery that reaches 80% charge in 2.5 hours.
Technical specifications include an NFC-enabled digital dashboard, allowing the scooter to be unlocked with a smartphone or card. Additionally, it is outfitted with a built-in security alarm and motion detection, which sends alerts in the event of theft or an accident. The Alpha is priced at €1,900, making it a premium option.
The vehicle is legal for individuals aged 16 and older. No helmet or driving license is necessary, and the e-scooter can be fully insured. However, a license plate is mandatory, costing €18 for existing vehicles and €50 for new ones, according to the RDW.
E-scooters, referred to as "steps" in Dutch, are prevalent in many European cities, but their use in the Netherlands has been limited to private driveways or gardens. Previously, riding one on public roads and bike lanes was illegal and would result in a €380 fine. This is now undergoing a change.
The RDW has recently implemented new legal regulations permitting e-scooters on Dutch roads, provided they comply with stringent safety standards and are equipped with a license plate. Selana is the first company to fulfill these criteria.
"I’m extremely proud that we managed to overcome this obstacle, especially after industry experts, investors, competitors, and critics continuously asserted that it was impossible," remarked Schalow.
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The first legally approved e-scooter has been launched in the Netherlands, priced at €1,900.
The Selana Alpha is the first e-scooter to receive approval for public road use. It is currently available for purchase at a price of €1,900.