Pedelecs

DEKRA expert tip

Pedelecs (pedal electric cycle) dispose of an electric motor which can deliver speeds of up to 25 km/h for assistance.

These e-bikes are classified as equal to bicycles as opposed to low-powered motorcycles or mopeds, which is why no insurance indicator or approval, nor any driving permit or license is required to use them in road traffic. There is also no obligation to wear a helmet when riding these, which also explains why the sales figures of pedelecs are steadily rising as their popularity surges. The great popularity of the new technology, especially among new groups of buyers, requires manufacturers to exercise a high level of care in their product quality with regard to product liability.

Just like bicycles, pedelecs need to meet various safety requirements, which, because of the inclusion of electrical components alone, are far more stringent than for regular bicycles. Product testing according to current applicable standards provides customers with a sense of security regarding the products’ quality. DEKRA tests the safety of pedelecs and bicycles in its own laboratories according to applicable standards; these tests include, for example, tests of the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), the safety of the batteries, the electrical safety or their mechanical strength.

For several years now, DEKRA has been able to demonstrate its competence in the field of e-mobility with its “DEKRA pedelec check.” This check involves putting especially interesting models under the proverbial microscope in tests that go beyond the regular applicable standards and look into the practicality of pedelecs from the users’ point of view. It goes without saying that DEKRA then also publishes the findings of these tests.