The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) has released new guidelines urging major cities to redesign urban mobility plans by prioritizing L-category vehicles—motorcycles, scooters, and three-wheelers—potentially reducing congestion by up to 40%.
The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) has released a new guidance document calling on urban planners to adopt a ‘rightsizing’ approach to transportation, focusing on L-category vehicles. These lightweight, fuel-efficient vehicles include motorcycles, scooters, and three-wheelers, and ACEM argues they can play a pivotal role in freeing up public space and easing traffic jams.
What Are L-Category Vehicles and Why Now?
L-category vehicles encompass a wide range of light two- and three-wheelers. According to ACEM, they can reduce urban congestion by up to 40% in some scenarios. The push comes as cities grapple with limited parking and worsening traffic. These vehicles are already popular in many European cities, but ACEM believes their potential is underutilized.
5 Key Recommendations in the New Guidelines
- Dedicated lanes: Create safe, separate lanes for motorcycles and scooters to encourage their use.
- Secure parking: Design protected parking areas with charging points for electric models.
- Traffic law adjustments: Allow access to bus lanes and areas restricted to larger cars.
- Purchase incentives: Offer tax breaks or financial incentives for switching from cars to L-category vehicles.
- Integration with public transport: Permit bikes on public transport for multi-modal journeys.
Could These Guidelines Work in the Gulf?
While the guidelines target European cities, their principles could apply to Gulf cities like Dubai and Riyadh, which face growing congestion. However, extreme summer heat is a major hurdle for open vehicles. Partially enclosed electric scooters could offer a compromise. Dubai has already started allocating lanes for bicycles and motorcycles, signaling potential interest.
How Much Do L-Category Vehicles Cost in Saudi Arabia?
Light motorcycles (L-category) in Saudi Arabia range from SAR 15,000 to SAR 50,000 (approx. USD 4,000–13,300), depending on model and brand. Electric scooters start around SAR 8,000 (USD 2,130). These prices make them an economical alternative to cars, especially with rising fuel and دليل maintenance costs.
When Could These Recommendations Be Applied in the Region?
No Gulf city has officially adopted these guidelines yet. However, with governments pushing sustainability and reducing emissions, interest is expected to grow in the coming years. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 includes improving cycling infrastructure in Riyadh and Jeddah, which could pave the way for L-category vehicles.
Key Facts
- Issuing body: European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM)
- Congestion reduction potential: Up to 40%
- Number of recommendations: 5
- Vehicle categories: L-category (motorcycles, scooters, three-wheelers)
- Price range in Saudi Arabia: SAR 15,000–50,000 (USD 4,000–13,300) for light motorcycles
FAQ
What are L-category vehicles?
L-category vehicles are two- or three-wheeled vehicles including motorcycles, scooters, and three-wheelers. They are lightweight, fuel-efficient, and ideal for congested urban areas.
Will these guidelines be implemented in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia has not officially adopted them, but with Vision 2030’s focus on improving cycling infrastructure in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, future steps to encourage light motorcycles are possible.
What are the benefits of using motorcycles in cities?
They reduce traffic congestion, save parking space, lower carbon emissions, and are cheaper to maintain and fuel than cars.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are L-category vehicles?
L-category vehicles are two- or three-wheeled vehicles including motorcycles, scooters, and three-wheelers. They are lightweight, fuel-efficient, and ideal for congested urban areas.
Will these guidelines be implemented in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia has not officially adopted them, but with Vision 2030's focus on improving cycling infrastructure in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, future steps to encourage light motorcycles are possible.
What are the benefits of using motorcycles in cities?
They reduce traffic congestion, save parking space, lower carbon emissions, and are cheaper to maintain and fuel than cars.
Sources
- Visordown — New ACEM guidance urges cities to “rightsize” urban mobility with L-category vehicles
