Electric Pedicabs as E-Bikes: California Vehicle Code § 467.5

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By Ali HoruzNov 30, 2023

Under California Vehicle Code § 467.5, a pedicab is a bicycle, and that includes an electric bicycle. In many configurations that means an electric pedicab can carry paying passengers without the driver needing a motorcycle license. It's one reason Xion's commercial electric pedicabs run in California cities and beyond: the legal setup works well for fleet operators. The full text of the section is below.

Cal. Veh. Code § 467.5

Section 467.5 - "Pedicab" defined

"Pedicab" means any of the following:

(a) A bicycle, including an electric bicycle, that has three or more wheels, that transports, or is capable of transporting, passengers on seats attached to the bicycle, that is operated by a person, and that is being used for transporting passengers for hire.

(b) A bicycle, including an electric bicycle, that pulls a trailer, sidecar, or similar device, that transports, or is capable of transporting, passengers on seats attached to the trailer, sidecar, or similar device, that is operated by a person, and that is being used for transporting passengers for hire.

(c) A four-wheeled device that is primarily or exclusively pedal-powered, has a seating capacity for eight or more passengers, cannot travel in excess of 15 miles per hour, and is being used for transporting passengers for hire. A pedicab defined under this subdivision is subject to the requirements of Article 4.5 (commencing with Section 21215) of Chapter 1 of Division 11.

Ca. Veh. Code § 467.5

Amended by Stats 2021 ch 311 (SB 814), s 3, eff. 1/1/2022.

Amended by Stats 2015 ch 496 (SB 530), s 1, eff. 1/1/2016.

Added by Stats 2010 ch 614 (AB 2294), s 1, eff. 1/1/2011.

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Xion's commercial electric pedicabs count as electric bicycles under California law and similar statutes in most U.S. states. Fleet packages include custom branding and full operator support.

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