Netherlands’ First Legal E-Scooter Launches at €1,900
▼ Summary
– The Dutch government approved the first electric scooter (Selana Alpha) for public roads and bike lanes, marking a shift in micromobility regulations.
– Developed by startup Selana, the e-scooter received a blue license plate, legally classifying it as a light motor vehicle.
– The Selana Alpha features a 25km/h top speed, 45–60km range, smartphone-controlled lock, and safety features like motion detection and alarms.
– Riders aged 16+ can use it without a helmet or license, but a license plate (€18–€50) and insurance are required.
– Previously illegal on public roads, e-scooters are now permitted in the Netherlands if they meet strict safety standards and have a license plate.
The Netherlands has officially welcomed its first street-legal electric scooter, signaling a major milestone for micromobility in a country historically cautious about such vehicles. The Selana Alpha, developed by startup Selana, recently received approval from the Dutch transport authority (RDW), granting it the country’s inaugural blue license plate for e-scooters.
After six years of navigating regulatory challenges, co-founders Chingiskhan Kazakhstan and Max Schalow celebrated the breakthrough. “Selana Alpha is now legal to ride on public bike lanes in the Netherlands,” Schalow announced on LinkedIn. The scooter’s compliance with strict safety standards paved the way for its approval, setting a precedent for future models.
Designed for practicality and safety, the Alpha features 10-inch air tires, dual mechanical drum brakes, and regenerative braking. Its full LED lighting includes turn signals, while a smartphone-controlled lock system adds convenience. Riders can expect a top speed of 25 km/h, in line with Dutch regulations, and a range of 45–60 km on a single charge. The 576 Wh LG lithium-ion battery reaches 80% capacity in just 2.5 hours.
Tech enhancements include an NFC-enabled digital dashboard, allowing unlocking via smartphone or card. Built-in anti-theft alarms and motion detection provide added security, alerting owners to unauthorized movement. With a price tag of €1,900, the Alpha positions itself as a premium option in the micromobility market.
No helmet or driver’s license is required for riders aged 16 and above, though a license plate is mandatory, costing €18 for existing vehicles or €50 for new registrations. The scooter can also be fully insured, offering peace of mind for urban commuters.
Until now, e-scooters in the Netherlands were confined to private property, with public road use risking a €380 fine. The RDW’s new provisions, however, have opened the door for compliant models like the Alpha. Selana’s success in meeting these stringent requirements could encourage other manufacturers to follow suit, potentially transforming urban transportation in the country.
Schalow reflected on the achievement, acknowledging skeptics who doubted the possibility. “I’m extremely proud that we managed to get past this hurdle,” he said, marking a turning point for e-scooters in the Dutch mobility landscape.
(Source: The Next Web)
