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

A new electric bike, the Zero XE, displayed at the EV World exhibition in Dubai, can reach a top speed of 110kph, raising concerns over its safety and regulation on high-speed roads. The e-bike, priced at Dh25,000 ($6,800) and sold in Abu Dhabi, is equipped with safety features such as lights, indicators, a horn, and a number plate.

Zero Motorcycles, the bike's US manufacturer, registered the Zero XE with the Roads and Transport Authority and Abu Dhabi Police. However, Thomas Edelmann, founder of RoadSafetyUAE, argues that electric two-wheelers capable of exceeding 100kph should be treated as motorcycles rather than micromobility devices. He warns that their speed and performance could increase the risk of collisions and serious injuries, especially when ridden by inexperienced young people.

Thomas Edelmann calls for stricter rules governing the use of high-performance electric bikes, including clearer registration requirements, licensing, and vehicle inspections. He also emphasizes the need for stronger enforcement, as viral videos have shown young riders performing stunts on these e-motorbikes, often on walkways and main roads without lights.

The UAE has seen a surge in accidents involving motorcycles, bicycles, scooters, and e-bikes, with major accidents involving e-bikes rising from 20 in 2023 to 62 in the previous year.