Mexico City Targets E-Vehicle Safety With New Regulations

The Mexico City government has announced plans to propose reforms to the Mobility Law and Traffic Regulations to regulate electric motorcycles and scooters. The initiative aims to enhance road safety, streamline traffic flow, and protect the environment.

“There is a need to differentiate transportation types in the law and establish specific guidelines for new mobility schemes to ensure safe coexistence on the roads,” said Clara Brugada, Mayor of Mexico City, during a press conference at the Old City Hall.

The proposed reforms would require electric motorcycles capable of exceeding 25 km/h to comply with the same regulations as combustion-engine motorcycles. These vehicles must display a license plate, carry a circulation card, keep their lights on at all times, and require riders to wear helmets. They will also be prohibited from using bike lanes, confined lanes, sidewalks, or any other restricted areas.

The proposal also seeks to improve electric vehicle registration. Permits issued by other states or municipalities would need to be registered with Mexico City’s Mobility Ministry (SEMOVI). “This measure will allow for better oversight of vehicles operating in the city,” Brugada said.

Under the reforms, electric motorcycles are defined as vehicles capable of speeds greater than 25 km/h, operated via handlebars, and designed to carry one or two passengers.

Electric scooters and skateboards, by contrast, will be classified as non-motorized vehicles if they rely on human traction, assisted pedaling, or an electric motor with a maximum speed of 25 km/h. These vehicles must use bike lanes where available, signal lane changes, and will have priority over motorized vehicles. In areas without bike infrastructure, they may use the rightmost lane.

The government has highlighted the importance of these reforms with traffic accident statistics. In the third quarter of 2024, Mexico City recorded 19,207 traffic accidents, a 10.6% decrease compared to the previous quarter. However, fatalities remained high, with 106 deaths, of which 49% involved motorcycle users. Motorcyclists also accounted for 43% of all injuries resulting from traffic accidents.

“These numbers highlight the urgency of implementing regulations that protect all road users,” Brugada said. 

“We are not aiming to generate revenue through fines. Our goal is to raise awareness about the dangers of high-speed driving and reduce recurrent dangerous behavior,” said Pablo Vázquez, Secretary of Citizen Security (SSC-CDMX). He also announced that the government will enhance traffic monitoring through the Fotocívicas program, with 150 speed radars to be installed citywide.

Eréndira Cruzvillegas, Legal Counsel and Head of Legal Services, explained that multiple provisions of the Mobility Law and Traffic Regulations will be updated to formalize the classification of electric motorcycles. Specific articles, including Articles 9, 23, 64, 117, and 137 of the Mobility Law, will be revised to reflect the new classifications and requirements.

“This legal alignment ensures that electric motorcycles are formally recognized within the legal framework, defining their characteristics and establishing clear rules for their operation,” Cruzvillegas said.