SG 121/26
ASTM International publishes ASTM F3679-26, a new standard consumer safety specification for commercial electric-powered scooters for adults.
In August 2026, ASTM International published ASTM F3679-26, Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Commercial Electric-Powered Scooters for Adults. The new standard establishes safety performance requirements and test methods intended to reduce hazards associated with commercial electric scooters that are rented or leased for use by multiple riders, such as shared mobility and shared fleet scooters. The specification does not apply to individually owned scooters or to vehicles capable of speeds exceeding 32 km/h (20 mph), which fall under the jurisdiction of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The development of ASTM F3679-26 was driven in part by growing safety concerns associated with e-scooter use. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), 68 e-scooter-related fatalities were reported between 2017 and 2021. During the same period, an estimated 117,600 e-scooter-related emergency department visits occurred, increasing significantly from approximately 7,700 cases in 2017 to 42,200 cases in 2021. CPSC also conducted 48 in-depth investigations that identified recurring hazard patterns, including brake failures, fire incidents, unexpected power loss, rider loss of control and environmental factors.
What are the key requirements in the standard?
- Maximum vehicle speed limited to 32 km/h (20 mph)
- Mechanical braking systems, including independent braking requirements for dual-motor scooters.
- Throttle placement on the right handlebar and a maximum acceleration rate of 2.5 m/s²
- Vehicles must comply with UL 2272 - Electrical Systems for Personal E-Mobility Devices
- Batteries must comply with UL 2271 - Batteries for Use in Light Electric Vehicle (LEV) Applications and applicable IEC battery safety standards
- Chargers shall be certified and marked by an appropriate nationally recognized testing laboratory
- Battery protection against dust and water ingress to a minimum IP67 rating
- Charger interlocks to prevent scooter operation while charging
- Controller protections to prevent unauthorized use, detect faults and disable unsafe operation
- Structural integrity requirements, including frontal impact, dynamic strength, static strength, steering stem and wheel retention testing
- Safety requirements for folding mechanisms, latching systems, guards, pinch-point clearances, and tamper-resistant fasteners
- Dynamic braking performance with specified stopping distance limits
- Audible warning devices that comply with ISO 14878 Class II requirements
- Front lighting, rear brake lighting, and reflective devices in accordance with relevant ISO visibility standards
- Requirements addressing sharp points, sharp edges, handlebar end protection and other physical injury hazards
- Permanent product markings, warning labels and rider information
- Digital rider safety information, including mandatory warning acknowledgements and operating instructions delivered through the product’s digital interface
- Pre-ride safety messaging covering helmet use, brake checks, rider age, weight limits, traffic laws and single-rider operation
Who is impacted?
The new standard affects stakeholders across the commercial e-scooter supply chain, including product designers, manufacturers, testing laboratories, importers and shared mobility operators. Organizations involved in the development, deployment and operation of commercial electric-powered scooters are encouraged to review ASTM F3679-26 and assess conformity with its safety, performance, labeling and operational requirements.
When does it apply?
As a voluntary standard, ASTM F3679-26 does not specify a mandatory effective date. Implementation and adoption of the standard are at the discretion of manufacturers, fleet operators and other stakeholders.
A copy of the standard can be purchased at store.astm.org
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