Electric scooters to disrupt traditional industry in Taiwan

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's government aims to achieve net-zero emissions, targeting 100% sales of electric scooters by 2040. This ambitious plan will significantly impact traditional scooter shops, manufacturers, and supply chains for maintenance parts.

In 2022, the output value of the electric scooter industry reached nearly NT$2.6 trillion.

Electric scooters require fewer repairs and part replacements. However, for traditional scooter shops that rely on maintenance and repairs to make money, this shift would alter the operational model.

Many traditional scooter shops are considering transforming to seize new opportunities, with manufacturers beginning to assist them in transitioning to electric models. 

Hsieh Chun-hung (謝俊弘), manager of KYMCO's domestic sales department, stated that he thinks the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) is a learning process. "Whether it is the consumers, the government, or our industry, we are all learning. When electric vehicles naturally become part of our lives one day, I think consumers and shops will accept them," he said. 

Taiwan has approximately 14.39 million scooters and electric models make up about 4.4%. According to reports, around 80% of scooter drivers will continue to choose gas-powered vehicles when it's time for a replacement. 

Additionally, many consumers and businesses are concerned about electric scooters' safety and regulations.

Wang, a traditional scooter shop owner, remarked, "Gas-powered scooters have advantages. Although they are beneficial to the environment, many vehicle makers or consumers will not consider them before the regulations are perfected, the battery technology is upgraded, and safety measures are improved."

Electric scooters are seen as a solution to combat climate change, but phasing out gas-powered scooters will affect many livelihoods. The future of the entire scooter industry remains uncertain, and addressing all aspects will require time.