Rota Stands Firmly Against Decision To Ban E-Bikes And E-Scooters On Gozo Fast Ferry
ROTA has taken a firm stance against the decision made by the Gozo Fast Ferry company to ban e-bikes and e-scooters from boarding their vessels.
“Banning e-bikes from ferry services only limits the potential for people to use them as a viable mode of transportation, and this ultimately harms the environment, public health, and mobility,'” the environmental NGO said on Instagram.
Gozo Fast Ferry has claimed that it made this decision to safeguard the passenger’s health and safety whilst on board – due to concerns that the batteries of these modes of transport could catch fire.
E-bikes and e-scooters are now prohibited both on board the ferry, operating between the islands, as well as in all terminal areas.
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Rota noted that whilst there have been episodes where lithium-powered batteries can burn, the risk is very low, especially when the e-bikes are switched off, as they usually are during transit on ferries.
”While we understand that Lithium-ion batteries can potentially combust, there is very little risk when such batteries come from reliable manufacturers that add passive battery management features,” they said.
They urged the Gozo Fast Ferry company to look at the scientific data, and to ”consult with experts in the field before implementing any bans”.
Do you think e-bikes and e-scooters should be banned from the Gozo Fast Ferry?
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