Spain’s traffic department, the DGT, has given the green light to the B1 licence for sixteen-year-olds which is expected to come into force in 2023. It forms part of the 2030 Road Safety Strategy that aims to offer more mobility options
to over-16s.
The licence will allow over-16s to drive small electric vehicles, quads and tricycles up to 400 kg (or up to 550 kg if transporting goods), not including batteries. More specifically, it covers L7e category vehicles with a maximum power that’s less than or equal to 15 kW (20 hp) and a maximum speed of up to 90 km/h, which means they can also be driven on main roads and motorways.
Introduction of the new B1 licence aims to improve road safety as these vehicles are enclosed or semi-enclosed and can be equipped with technological solutions such as ABS brakes. It also offers youngsters a way to familiarise themselves with road driving before getting behind the wheel of a more powerful vehicle.
With the focus firmly set on electric mobility, suitable vehicles already on the market include, the Italian electric XEV Yoyo, the Citroën AMI, the Renault Twizy or Movilize Duo, the Silence S04 and the Opel Rocks-e. And there are more in the pipeline, such as the Microlino Spiaggina, presented at the Paris Motor Show as a concept car, also available as
a convertible.
