In Asia, mobile electric suitcases are very popular, but in Japan they are becoming a real problem. According to a report by the Japanese news site Kyodo News The Japanese authorities are increasingly struggling with the illegal use of suitcases in road traffic. Electric suitcases, which can be used for transportation, are particularly annoying for foreign travelers, as they use them not only at airports but also on public roads.
Mobile electric suitcases
The use of wheeled suitcases in Japan is actually clearly regulated: They are treated like motorized bicycles similar to small motorcycles up to 50 cm³. And to be allowed to drive them on public transport, they must be registered and Brakes, indicators and mirrors and be covered by liability insurance. In addition, you must have a wear a helmet and a matching one driving licence Anyone who does not comply with the regulations is driving illegally. The suitcases can reach speeds of up to 10 km/h and are available from around 650 US dollars, which makes them very popular.
Ignorance of the rules leads to problems.
According to Kyodo News, illegal use extends to airports and public roads. This is particularly noticeable in airports such as Narita Airport near Tokyo, Chubu Centrair International Airport in Aichi Prefecture and Kansai International Airport in Osaka. Foreign travelers are apparently using the suitcases to weave through the crowds, which leads to many complaints. Airport operators therefore advise against using them in airport buildings.
Illegal use is a problem in traffic.
The police authorities are often powerless to stop the illegal activities, as most tourists act out of ignorance of the rules and only get away with a warning. Japan has already had experience with the approval of electric scooters, which can be driven without a license since July 2023. Since then, the number of accidents has increased sharply. Japan has therefore become alert and it remains to be seen how the Japanese government will respond to the increasing violations.
Maria Holler
Maria Holler - Maria has been contributing her expertise in the area of "Laws & Legal" to tuningblog.eu since 2014. As a lawyer with a passion for the automotive world, she combines her specialist knowledge with her interest in tuning and vehicle adaptations. She ensures that readers are always informed about the latest legal framework. In her free time, she is intensively involved with legal regulations in road traffic, which makes her an indispensable resource for the tuning community.