First Legal E-Scooter Approved for Dutch Roads: A Major Leap for Micromobility
The first legal e-scooter is finally on the streets of the Netherlands. This is a big step forward for the country’s efforts to make urban transportation cleaner. The Selana Alpha was made by the Dutch startup Selana, and it was recently given the go-ahead to be used on public roads and bike lanes. The RDW, which is in charge of transportation in the Netherlands, gave the scooter a blue license plate. This makes it an official light motor vehicle.
Co-founders Chingiskhan Kazakhstan and Max Schalow spent six years pursuing this goal. To celebrate the approval, Schalow shared on LinkedIn that Selana Alpha is now legal to ride on public bike lanes in the Netherlands. He added that after years of hard work, the dream has finally become a reality.
Selana Alpha: A Game-Changer for Urban Commuters
The Selana Alpha is street-legal and has a lot of smart and safe features. It has 10-inch tires that are filled with air, two mechanical drum brakes, and an electronic regenerative brake. These parts work together to make sure the ride is smooth and safe. LED lights and built-in turn signals also make it easier for other drivers to see the rider, especially when they are in traffic.
The scooter also has an NFC-enabled dashboard that lets people unlock it with a smartphone or card. It also has an alarm system and motion sensors built in that let users know if there is a theft or a crash.
The Selana Alpha runs on a 576 Wh LG lithium-ion battery. It reaches a top speed of 25 kilometers per hour and provides a range of 45 to 60 kilometers. Moreover, the battery charges up to 80 percent in just two and a half hours. As a result, the scooter is ideal for regular commuters who need a quick and reliable travel option.
Previously, riding an e-scooter on public roads in the Netherlands was illegal and could lead to a fine of 380 euros. Riders were limited to using them on private properties. However, recent changes in RDW regulations now allow e-scooters on public roads—if they meet strict safety criteria and include a license plate.
Selana Alpha is the first e-scooter to fulfill all these conditions. According to the rules, riders must be at least sixteen years old. While helmets and driving licenses are not required, the vehicle must carry a number plate. It costs eighteen euros for existing registrations and fifty euros for new ones.
Max Schalow expressed his excitement by stating how proud he is to overcome the challenge. Despite repeated doubts from experts, investors, and critics, the team succeeded in achieving something many believed was impossible.
What’s Next for Dutch Cities
The first legal e-scooter marks the start of a new era in Dutch city transportation. In the future, more businesses may follow Selana’s example and release similar models that meet the rules. Because of this, more Dutch cities might start using eco-friendly and tech-enabled micromobility options.
