The variety of different small powered and unpowered wheeled devices on our networks continues to grow. ViaStrada produced the first comprehensive research report on safety and legislation for e-bikes and other low-powered vehicles in 2017. It included a scan of worldwide knowledge and practice as well as design advice for mobility scooters. We have provided expert advice for court cases and ongoing research into speed, gender and device type on various facilities in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
Micro-mobility
Relevant Projects
E-scooter court evidence
ViaStrada was commissioned by legal representatives of three e-scooter sharing companies to prepare an affidavit for the court on the safety and regulation of e-scooters. This follows on from our NZ Transport Agency Research Report 621 Regulations and safety for electric bicycles and other low-powered vehicles.
Key Contact: John Lieswyn
Infrastructure for quick-build cycleways
Waka Kotahi commissioned ViaStrada to undertake research on quick-build (interim) cycleway infrastructure. Some of New Zealand’s Road Controlling Authorities (RCAs) are responding to the imperatives of the Road to Zero strategy, the Climate Change Emergency Declaration, and emissions reduction planning by reallocating road space and supporting mode shift to cycling. The Innovating Streets programme of 2020/21 led to the rollout of several demonstration (1 day to 1 month), pilot (1 month to 1 year) and interim (5+ year) cycleways.
Key Contact: John Lieswyn
Mackenzie District Transport Mapping
The Department of Conservation (DOC) commissioned ViaStrada to create a web map application that summarizes data relating to different topics:
Key Contact: John Lieswyn
Regulations and safety for electric bicycles and other low-powered vehicles
This research report presents a review of overseas legislation, technology trends, market and safety analyses for low-powered, low-speed vehicles. These vehicles include electric bicycles, mobility scooters, self-balancing devices and other personal mobility or wheeled recreational devices. Based on a literature review, consultation with key stakeholders in two forums and an online survey with over 1200 responses, the research assesses various regulatory and non-regulatory options for improving safety while supporting technological innovation and mode choice options in New Zealand.
Key Contact: John Lieswyn