Location
Cologne, Germany

Law and regulations

Electric scooters have become a popular mode of transportation in cities around the world, providing a convenient and eco-friendly way for people to get around. However, their use has also raised concerns about safety and public nuisance. In May 2022, the Cologne City Council passed new special use statutes, which imposed an annual fee of 85 to 130 euros per vehicle for e-scooter rental companies operating in the city. This fee was challenged in court by companies such as Bolt, LimeBike, TIER, and VOI, who argued that it was too high and would effectively prevent e-scooters from being used in urban areas. The administrative court ultimately ruled in favor of the city, finding the special fee to be lawful. This ruling raises important questions about the role of electric scooters in urban transportation and the regulations that should be put in place to govern their use.