Japan cracks down on use of rideable electric suitcases amid tourist boom
Japan is tightening regulations on rideable electric suitcases, requiring safety equipment and licenses. Airports advise against their use, and incidents highlight the need for legal compliance amid rising popularity.
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Japan is tightening regulations on the use of rideable electric suitcases amid a surge in tourism, particularly as the yen weakens. Two major airports have advised travelers against riding these motorized suitcases within their premises, while police are urging retailers to inform customers about the strict legal requirements. Classified as "motorized vehicles," these suitcases require safety equipment and a driver's license to operate legally on roads. Recent incidents highlight the enforcement of these laws; a Chinese student was prosecuted for riding a three-wheeled suitcase on a sidewalk without a license, and a boy from Indonesia was surprised to learn that a license was necessary after riding one in a busy shopping area. The electric suitcases, which can reach speeds of up to 13 km/h, are becoming increasingly popular, influenced by celebrity endorsements. Experts suggest that Japan may need to reconsider its vehicle classifications to accommodate new transportation forms like electric suitcases, especially as traffic violations involving electric scooters have surged since regulations were relaxed in mid-2023. The current laws reflect Japan's struggle to adapt to emerging transportation technologies while ensuring public safety.
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- Some commenters question the need for licenses, comparing these suitcases to electric bicycles.
- Concerns are raised about the practicality and safety of using such suitcases in airports.
- There is criticism of Japan's perceived anti-tourist sentiment and its potential impact on tourism.
- Several users express confusion over the legal classification of these vehicles and suggest updating laws to accommodate them.
- Safety issues related to lithium batteries in luggage are highlighted as a significant concern.
14 commentshttps://www.keishicho.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/kotsu/jikoboshi/elec...
Edit: Also I now remember laughing as the panels started gasping at tourists jaywalking which I regularly see where I live.
There are many companies that either have such devices in Japan that they can't sell, or companies that want to sell there but can't, because there are laws against riding electric devices on the sidewalk, and it's too dangerous to ride those on the street.
I saw someone using a Honda Motocompacto as intended yesterday. She rode it into the Redwood City train station, quickly folded it, and easily carried it onto the train.
I also wonder how much useful space is left in them after the slide-out steering mechanism, batteries and motors.
I'd be more worried about tons of lithium batteries made to the cheapest price going inside the cargo hold.
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