Can You Take an Electric Scooter on Public Transportation?

Varla Scooter is helping people discover new ways to getting around their city with our line of electric scooters, and this mode of transportation is becoming more and more popular. In 2018 alone, over 5 million electric scooters were sold. This market is expected to grow significantly to an estimated $14 billion by the year 2025. With an increase in usage of electric scooters, people often ask us if our electric scooters can be taken on public transportation including airplanes, trains, and buses.

 

Since electric scooters have limitations (for example, they can’t be driven on a freeway), most city commuters rely on other forms of transportation to supplement part of their commute. In this article, we’re going to discuss the various options available to electric scooters owners who use public transportation and how Varla designed the perfect scooter that can be taken just about anywhere.

 

One thing to note is that some transportation services have not updated their policies or specifically address the use of electric scooters. This article is a general guide. It’s recommended that you check with the transportation authority or carrier for regulations that apply to your area.

Bringing an Electric Scooter on a Train

In the United States, there are several options when it comes to train service including national lines such as Amtrak or regional or local trains. Regulations may vary depending on the train authority or company that operates the train service.

 

Amtrak treats electric scooters the same as electric bicycles. There are no restrictions to taking a battery-powered mode of transportation on board as long as it is stowed properly. The added bonus to taking a Varla electric scooter is its size. When folded, the Varla Pegasus measures 47.2” long and 18.9” tall. This makes it very easy to place in the luggage area.

 

Full-size bikes must be placed in the designated bike rack. Foldable electric scooters can be carried into the passenger car and treated the same as a carry-on piece of luggage. Just make sure that your scooter doesn’t block the pathways or seats of other passengers.

 

One challenge that electric scooter owners may face is difficulty getting through certain doorways, automated entry kiosks, or rotating gates. This can be resolved by simply folding up and carrying your electric scooter through. If you run into challenges, ask a train employee to use the handicap-accessible entrance or gate.

 

Metros, Light Rail, and Trams

Many of the same rules that apply to passenger trains apply to other forms of public transportation such as subways, light rail lines, and trams. When taking your Varla scooter on these modes of rail transportation, make sure that it is placed in a folded position and out of any aisleways or other seats. Unlike proper train travel, there may not be an attendant or train employee to assist you, so be sure to look up the regulations ahead of your trip.

 

Electric Scooters on Public Buses

If you have a long commute, you may choose to leverage a public bus instead of riding your electric scooter the whole way. Most public transportation services do allow passengers to carry their electric scooters on buses. Unlike other forms of transportation, public buses may not have a dedicated space for large bags or luggage. Generally, electric scooters are required to be in a folded position and placed on your lap or under your seat. You may not place the scooter on the seat next to you as this should be kept open for other passengers.

 

Taxis and Rideshares

In major cities, it’s extremely common for people to use a taxi or rideshare service to get around. In most cases, there are no issues with taking an electric scooter with you in a taxi or rideshare vehicle. Ask the driver for the best place to put your Varla scooter. They will likely direct you to place the folded scooter in the trunk of the vehicle during the ride.

 

Taking an Electric Scooter on an Aircraft

The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) does allow passengers to carry batteries on flights. However, the size of the battery is limited by its watt-hour (Wh rating). Rechargeable batteries must not exceed 100-watt hours and must be placed in a carry-on bag. No rechargeable batteries are allowed to be checked in on flights. While this restriction does apply to most situations, the FAA, does allow passengers to request special approval from the airline to transport larger batteries.

To calculate the Wh rating on your electric scooter, you will need the battery voltage (V) and amp (Ah) rating. Some batteries may list amperage as milliamps (mAh). Simply divide mAh by 1,000 to find the Ah rating.

Watt-Hour calculation: Voltage (V) x Amps (Ah) = Watt-Hours (Wh)

For example, a Varla electric scooter that has a battery that is rated 48V/15.6Ah will equal 748.8 watt-hours (Wh). This does exceed the FAA’s 100 Wh limit on rechargeable batteries.

 

Ferries and Water Taxis

In many coastal cities, people often travel by water on ferries or water taxis. These crafts typically have a designated area for electric scooters and bikes. Most ferry terminals are very strict about people riding around the dock or on the boat. Have your scooter packed up before you approach the dock and you shouldn’t have any issues.

 

Unfortunately, some cities still have scooters banned since gas-powered scooters are a safety issue on the watercraft. Their regulations don’t often distinguish between gas-powered and electric models. Be sure to check the rules before you go.

 

Zip Around Your City on a Best Electric Scooter on the Market

Varla is dedicated to providing our customers with an efficient and eco-friendly way to get around town. Our electric scooters come in both on (Pegasus) and off-road (Eagle One) variations to fit your needs. Unlike other brands, their durable construction is perfect for heavy adults. They also come with direct-to-consumer pricing, a 2-year warranty, and free shipping. Check out our website for more details on your next new set of wheels.