Selfridges has come in for criticism for its decision to sell high speed e-scooters, such as the 'heavyweight' Kaabo Wolf Warrior 11, which is capable of speeds of up to 50mph. The store highlights in a sign alongside the vehicle that it is currently illegal to use electric scooters on public roads and pavements.
West Midlands Assistant Police and Crime Commissioner Tom McNeil last month accused a number of major retailers of being "immoral" and of "profiting from confusion" for selling e-scooters given their current legal status.
McNeil wrote to a number of High Street shops, urging them to remove the vehicles from sale.
Halfords and Argos responded by highlighting that they provided clear information about the use of e-scooters to ensure customers understood the legal restrictions.
Both these firms appear to restrict their stock to scooters with a top speed of 25km/h (15.5mph), which is perhaps not coincidentally the maximum permitted assisted speed for e-bikes.
Selfridges, in contrast, offer e-scooters capable of far higher speeds. The retailer’s website currently lists the £1,899 Kaabo Mantis Pro, for example.
While the specifications list a top speed of 64km/h (40mph), the ‘Selfridges Says’ promotional text about the product suggests it is capable of up to 55mph.
At the bottom of the product copy, a paragraph reads: “Electric vehicles are for use on private property only with the permission of owner, use on highways/ roads/ pavements is currently prohibited in the UK.
“With speeds capable of 25km/h we advise anyone operating an e-vehicle to wear appropriate protective equipment and that children must be supervised at all times when operating any e-vehicle.”
Twitter user CycleGaz has also highlighted the Kaabo Wolf Warrior 11, which is on sale in a Selfridges store.
A 50mph e-scooter for sale in @Selfridges
— CycleGaz™ (@cyclegaz) December 1, 2021
“According to law, e-scooters SHOULD only be used on private property”
I don’t think you know how laws work. pic.twitter.com/uL6dZbaiFo
Priced at £2,599, the Wolf Warrior 11 features two 1200W motors and is described by Kaabo as, “a stunning speed machine.”
A Selfridges notice next to the e-scooter states: “Please note that according to law, e-scooters should only be used on private property and not on public roads or pavements. Thank you.”
