New e-bike for faster roads displayed in Dubai as expert calls for tighter rules

Detailed summary

A new electric bike approved for use on high-speed roads has been showcased at the EV World exhibition in Dubai. But its top-speed of 110kph has led to renewed concerns over the…

A new electric bike approved for use on high-speed roads has been showcased at the EV World exhibition in Dubai. But its top-speed of 110kph has led to renewed concerns over the safety and regulation of high-performance electric two-wheelers.

The Zero XE recently went on sale in Abu Dhabi for Dh25,000 ($6,800). It comes fitted with lights, indicators, a horn and a number plate. Zero Motorcycles, its US manufacturer, said the bike has been registered with the Roads and Transport Authority and Abu Dhabi Police.

The e-bike a range of around 100km on one charge. Its top speed allows it to be registered for use on public roads with a higher speed limit than the usual 60kph for e-bikes.

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Thomas Edelmann, founder of RoadSafetyUAE, said electric two-wheelers capable of exceeding 100kph should be treated as motorcycles rather than micromobility devices.

He warned their speed and performance could increase the risk of collision and serious injury, particularly when ridden by inexperienced young people.

The growing popularity of modified electric bikes has become a concern in residential communities, where young riders have been reported travelling at high speeds and performing stunts.

Their use is restricted to designated tracks, while riding on main roads can incur a Dh300 fine.

Shehab Al Zainy, Middle East brand manager for Zero Motorcycles, said the model was built to meet road requirements and cannot be modified or upgraded to increase performance. “These bikes are made from the factory to be road legal,” he said.

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