Police seize more than 1,000 e-bikes and e-scooters so far in 2026

Police Scotland said officers had confiscated 561 e-bikes and 441 e-scooters so far in October, totaling more than 1,000 devices in 2026. The figure is up by more than 60% compared with the previous year’s total, when 373 e-bikes and 196 e-scooters were recovered in 2025. The action followed a week targeting dangerous or antisocial use of these vehicles. David Threadgold, chair of the Scottish Police Federation, said police have “extremely limited” options but urged faster powers, including the ability to require riders to stop and remove face coverings. Police Scotland noted that e-bikes can be used on public roads only if they meet requirements including 15.5 mph motor limit and 250-watt maximum power, while e-scooters are not permitted on public roads or pavements.