Singapore investigates over 50 cases for non-compliant motorised devices

By the end of 2023, Singapore’s authorities had investigated 51 cases related to offences under the Small Motorised Vehicles (Safety) Act 2020.

This was revealed following inquiries by Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong, a Workers’ Party Member of Parliament for Hougang SMC, who asked the Minister for Transport on Tuesday (2 Apr) about measures to curb the ownership and importation of non-compliant active mobility devices and their batteries.

Transport Minister Mr Chee Hong Tat explained the Land Transport Authority (LTA)’s collaboration with Singapore Customs and the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority to enforce regulations.

As part of these efforts, 48 devices that did not meet safety standards were forfeited, some of which were bought online.

To import Power-Assisted Bicycles (PABs) and motorised Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) into Singapore, businesses and individuals must obtain approval from the LTA, ensuring these devices meet the required safety criteria for public use.

From January 2020 to December 2023, the LTA detected around 5,100 offences involving the use of non-compliant devices on paths and roads, in addition to about 100 violations linked to retail operations.

The penalties for first-time offenders include fines up to S$5,000 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both, for importing a device without approval.

The use of a non-compliant device on a public path can lead to a fine of up to S$10,000 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both. Retailers found displaying non-compliant devices for sale may face fines up to S$20,000.