Request ID: FOI-0182-2223 Date published: 13 May 2022
You asked
1 - Have any mobility scooters been banned from TfL services because they are powered by lithium-ion batteries? (just a yes or no reply is needed, thanks).
2 - does the current ban on vehicles powered by lithium-ion batteries extend to buses and trams?
3 - if no, does TfL plan to do this?
We answered
Our Ref: FOI-0182-2223
Thank you for your request received on 27 April 2022 asking for information about the use of lithium-ion battery powered vehicles on TfL services.
Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy. I can confirm we do hold the information you require. You asked:
1. Have any mobility scooters been banned from TfL services because they are powered by lithium-ion batteries? (just a yes or no reply is needed, thanks).
No, mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs are not prohibited from the TfL network, and continue to be allowed on our services in line with our Conditions of Carriage (see sections 10 and 11 - https://content.tfl.gov.uk/tfl-conditions-of-carriage.pdf). Mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs are not considered to pose the same level of fire risk as privately owned e-scooters and e-unicycles.
2. Does the current ban on vehicles powered by lithium-ion batteries extend to buses and trams? 3. If no, does TfL plan to do this?
All privately owned e-scooters and e-unicycles are banned from the TfL network, including our buses, trams, and London Underground and other rail services and stations. Rental e-scooters have never been allowed on the TfL network. As above, mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs continue to be allowed on our network.
If this is not the information you are looking for please feel free to contact me.
Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.
Yours sincerely
Gemma Jacob Senior FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
