‘Car brain’: Queensland government criticised for proposed age, speed and licence limits on ebikes

Legislation may limit transport options for people who cannot drive and discourage those seeking relief from the fuel crisis Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast For Maggie, 12, her modified ebike is her ticket to the world. The Rockhampton girl, who has a form of dwarfism, is unable to push a non-powered bike, walk long distances or carry around heavy books or shopping. “It gives her the possibility of keeping up with her peers,” said her mother, Krysten Thompson adding Maggie may one day even use it to travel to school if bike paths improved. But Andrea Herklots from EveryBody eBikes said she’s worried a proposed crackdown on e-mobility – including a requirement that riders be “medically fit to drive” a car – would lock many out of transport access. The Brisbane shop produces modified e-vehicles for people with disabilities throughout Australia and in the US and Canada. Queensland’s transport minister, Brent Mickelberg, announced on Tuesday that the government would introduce legislation this week implementing the recommendations of a recent parliamentary inquiry into the transport mode, requiring riders to be over 16, hold at least a learne