Abstract:
The range of innovative, electrically powered, personal mobility devices is expanding. Integration of these vehicles requires consideration of the risks and opportunities the devices provide in terms of safety, system efficiency, mobility enhancement, energy consumption, and environmental impacts. Many of the devices are not subject to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or similar regulations. Classification of these devices as a moped or a bicycle is important, as there are regulations that apply depending on the classification. To enhance understanding of these vehicles, several Transportation Research Board (TRB) technical standing committees have established a joint subcommittee on Emerging Technologies and Vehicles for Personal Transportation.
