E-scooters and electric mopeds with seat compared

The eKFV requires small electric vehicles to have a handlebar or grab bar; a permanently fitted seat is not provided for. E-scooters with a seat are therefore usually classified as light motor vehicles under EU type approval – as a low-speed moped (Mofa) up to 25 km/h or as a moped up to 45 km/h (both class L1e-B). You can recognise this by an EU certificate of conformity, the so-called COC document, and by abbreviations such as EEC in the listing title.

For you this means: you need an insurance plate, a helmet and – depending on the class – a Mofa test certificate (Mofa-Prüfbescheinigung) or an AM driving licence. Cycle paths are generally off limits unless they are signposted as open to mopeds.

The requirements depend on the top speed:

Seated scooters with 12- or 14-inch wheels are much more stable than stand-up scooters and are well suited to shopping trips or short commutes around the neighbourhood. Pay attention to the battery (a removable one is handy for charging indoors), sturdy suspension, good brakes and a basket or luggage rack. Also check carefully whether the seller supplies a COC document for the exact variant – without this document you will not get an insurance plate.

Many models can be folded, but with the seat and larger wheels they are bulkier than classic e-scooters. Measure beforehand whether the scooter will fit in your car boot or hallway.

An e-scooter with a seat is a good choice for people who find standing for long periods tiring, for short shopping trips and for journeys where you don’t need to take it on the bus. If, on the other hand, you regularly combine train and scooter, a light, foldable eKFV scooter will serve you better. And if you need more than 25 km/h, go straight for a proper 45 km/h electric moped.