TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Scooters have become a dominant mode of transportation in Taiwan, with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC, 交通部) reporting approximately 63 scooters for every 100 residents as of April 2025. This high ownership rate underscores the pivotal role scooters play in Taiwanese daily life.
Yang Ta-kuan (楊大寬), deputy director of public relations at the Formosa Motorcycle Rights Association (台灣機車路權促進會), notes that Taiwan's mild climate and mixed-use urban planning make scooters an optimal transportation choice. More than just a means of travel, scooters symbolize a cultural milestone. Ms. Chuang, for instance, purchased a scooter valued at about NT$100,000 (US$3,100) for her son, who is about to enter college. She believes it will not only ease his commute but also boost his future job prospects, given that many employers require a driver's license.
Despite the convenience scooters offer, questions linger about the adequacy and accessibility of public transportation. Hu Ti-chi (胡廸琦), deputy director of the Department of Public Transportation and Supervision (公共運輸監理司), observed a decline in public transport usage during the pandemic. However, initiatives like monthly pass discounts through TAPSS have successfully reduced the use of private vehicles.
Hu further stresses the importance of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, advocating for policies that promote electric and shared vehicles. Yang highlighted that Taiwan's licensing system is too lenient and suggested adopting stricter models like those in Japan or Europe, which could potentially reduce the number of qualified drivers by one-third.
