Source: Euroweekly News

Renfe, Spain’s national railway service has announced an electric scooter ban on its train services, a significant change that will affect its passengers.

From December 12th, the ban will come into effect and prohibit electric scooters, unicycles, and other battery-powered mobility devices from being carried on all its train services.

The decision has come from a series of hazardous incidents that have led to battery fires on public transport from tampered or damaged batteries, use of incompatible chargers, and general wear and tear.

Electric bicycles and vehicles for individuals with mobility impairments are excluded from this ban. Renfe’s board of directors have stated that public health and passenger safety are the main reason behind this new policy, ensuring its services run smoother and safer.

This move follows similar measures that have been taken from regional Spanish train services and from European countries. UK & Ireland rail operators, as well as the city of Hamburg in Germany, have also restricted electric scooter usage on their trains.

Once the ban comes into effect, Renfe can ask passengers carrying prohibited electric vehicles to disembark and will have security officers carrying out random inspections on their trains.