Overview
- The federal cabinet approved an amendment to the e‑scooter regulation that now goes to the Bundesrat, with publication targeted by year‑end and a one‑year transition period planned.
- From 2027, only newly approved scooters must have turn indicators, stronger battery safety standards, and expanded dynamic testing, while existing scooters may continue operating without retrofits.
- Standard fines will increase, lifting the penalty for riding on sidewalks from 15 to 25 euros and for carrying a second rider from 5 to 25 euros.
- Municipalities gain authority to set local parking rules for rental scooters, while parking on sidewalks or in pedestrian zones remains permitted if no one is obstructed or endangered.
- Police recorded nearly 12,000 injury crashes involving e‑scooters nationwide last year, up about 27%, and Baden‑Württemberg reported a 44.3% increase in the first half of 2025 with fatalities doubling from two to four.