Electric conversion of motorcycles or scooters in France: What is permitted
It is possible and legal to convert a Mobylette, a Vespa, or an older motorcycle into an electric machine in France, provided that a specific framework is followed. Since 2020, a decree has regulated the conversion of internal combustion engine vehicles to electric power, including two-wheeled vehicles. This guide summarizes this framework and then addresses the technical questions that arise when performing such a conversion.
The essentials
- The retrofit process is governed by the decree of March 13, 2020, published in the Official Journal on April 3, 2020.
- The conversion kit must be approved for the specific vehicle model and installed by a qualified installer authorized by the kit manufacturer.
- For two-wheeled vehicles, the vehicle must be more than three years old; classic vehicles are excluded from this program.
- A DIY conversion performed outside of the specified guidelines does not allow for legal operation on public roads.
What the law says
The decree of March 13, 2020, establishes the conditions under which a vehicle with a combustion engine can be converted into an electric vehicle powered by batteries or fuel cells, and then be used on public roads. Its main principles are:
- A certified device: The manufacturer of the kit obtains certification for its conversion for a specific vehicle model. The owner does not have to obtain individual certifications for each modification.
- A qualified installer: The conversion is carried out by a professional installer authorized by the device manufacturer, following their instructions.
- Minimum age requirement: For two-wheeled or three-wheeled vehicles, the vehicle must be more than three years old since its first registration; for four-wheeled vehicles, it must be more than five years old.
- Exclusive Vintage Vehicles: A vehicle registered as a vintage vehicle is not eligible for this program.
The text has been the subject of proposed amendments since its publication. For a specific project, please refer to the current version available on the Légifrance website.
Technical considerations for a retrofit project
Where should the battery be placed?
An older frame wasn't designed to accommodate a battery. This is often the first challenge: finding enough space where the fuel tank, motor, or under the seat used to be, without unbalancing the vehicle. The battery needs to be protected from impacts and water, and its capacity must be sized appropriately for the intended use.
What motor are you referring to?
On a moped or a small scooter, a hub motor in the rear wheel is often the simplest solution. On a motorcycle, a mid-drive motor that retains the final transmission via chain or belt allows you to maintain the bike's lines and weight distribution. See our guide on choosing between PMSM and BLDC motors.
What controller?
The controller must be sized appropriately for the motor and battery, and it needs to fit within the frame. Refer to our controller guide, the principles of which apply to all machines.
Brakes and other components
An older converted two-wheeler often gains torque at startup. The brakes, tires, and bearings must be upgraded to match. And all the electrical accessories, such as lights, horn, and turn signals, need to be powered from the new battery.
What Rage does for retrofitting
We design powertrain systems for retrofit workshops: motor, controller, battery, and display, with machined parts to fit the original frame, and sized for each machine. See our page for moped and motorcycle retrofits.
Workshop tip
Before purchasing a kit, inquire whether it is approved for your specific model and if there are any installers near you who can install it. Without these two confirmations, the converted vehicle will not be road legal.
For the general method, please refer to our guide on how to electrify a machine: where to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert my motorcycle to electric myself?
Technically, yes. However, for road legality, any conversion must use a device that is approved for your specific model and must be installed by a qualified installer authorized by the manufacturer.
Can a motorcycle registered as a classic vehicle be converted?
Vehicles considered "classic" are excluded from the provisions of the 2020 decree. Please familiarize yourself with the current regulations before undertaking any project.
Does a retrofit modification change the vehicle registration document?
The vehicle's power source is changing, which involves certain procedures. Ask the qualified installer which formalities are required for the conversion, starting with the initial quote.
Does Rage sell approved retrofit kits?
We design drive systems for workshops and kit manufacturers. Homologation is prepared in collaboration with the device manufacturer, model by model.