87116000
VEHICLES OTHER THAN RAILWAY OR TRAMWAY ROLLING STOCK, AND PARTS AND ACCESSORIES THEREOF›Motorcycles (including mopeds) and cycles fitted with an auxiliary motor, with or without side-cars; side-cars
With electric motor for propulsion
Subcodes (2)
Classification of electric motorcycles CN 871160
CN code 871160 covers motorcycles and cycles fitted with an electric motor for propulsion. This category includes electric motorcycles, electric scooters with power exceeding 250 W, and other two-wheeled electric vehicles not classified as electric bicycles. Electric motorcycles in the EU are subject to the same type-approval requirements as combustion motorcycles, classified into categories L1e-L7e under EU Regulation 168/2013. The key criterion distinguishing an electric motorcycle from an electric bicycle is motor power - vehicles with motors exceeding 250 W or without pedals are classified as motorcycles. Import follows standard customs procedures, and duty rates should be verified in the TARIC or ISZTAR system.
Regulations and requirements for electric motorcycles
Electric motorcycles imported into the EU must hold type approval under EU Regulation 168/2013. Safety requirements include UNECE regulations on braking (mandatory ABS for motorcycles above 125 cc equivalent), lighting, noise, and electrical safety. Lithium-ion batteries in electric motorcycles are subject to ADR dangerous goods transport regulations (Class 9) and the new EU Battery Regulation (2023/1542). Electric motorcycles are exempt from Euro exhaust emission standards but subject to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements. On-board chargers must meet electrical safety standards. The customs value includes the motorcycle with battery, transport, and insurance.
European electric motorcycle market
The European electric motorcycle market is growing dynamically from a low base. Manufacturers such as Zero Motorcycles, Energica, LiveWire (Harley-Davidson), BMW CE 04, and Silence offer an expanding model range. The electric scooter segment is growing fastest, particularly in cities with combustion vehicle restrictions. Chinese electric scooter imports represent a significant market share, with brands such as NIU and Yadea. Market development barriers include higher purchase prices compared to combustion motorcycles, limited range, and lack of charging infrastructure outside cities. Government incentives - purchase subsidies, parking fee exemptions, and emission zone access - support electric motorcycle adoption across EU member states.
Electric motorcycles - EU Regulation 168/2013
Importing electric motorcycles (CN 8711 60) into the EU requires two/three-wheel vehicle type-approval (EU) 168/2013. The MFN rate for motorcycles is 6% or 8% depending on engine size. Customs clearance requires an EORI number and a correct declaration. Preferential rates may apply under FTAs such as EU-Korea, EU-Japan EPA, or CETA. Battery safety (UNECE R100) and EU Battery Regulation 2023/1542 apply. National import VAT is charged at the destination Member State rate.
Frequently asked questions
What driving licence is required for an electric motorcycle?
The driving licence for an electric motorcycle depends on its power and maximum speed, analogous to combustion motorcycles. Electric scooters up to 45 km/h and 4 kW require AM category. Motorcycles up to 11 kW require A1. Motorcycles up to 35 kW require A2. Motorcycles exceeding 35 kW require category A. Classification follows the equivalent capacity calculated from motor power output.
Is importing an electric scooter from China subject to customs duty?
Yes, importing an electric scooter from China to the EU is subject to customs duty, the rate of which should be verified in the current TARIC system. VAT is charged in addition. The scooter must hold EU type approval or undergo individual approval. Import of the lithium-ion battery within the scooter is subject to dangerous goods transport regulations. Some EU countries offer electric vehicle purchase subsidies that may partially offset import costs.
Is an electric bicycle (e-bike) classified under CN 871160?
No, electrically assisted pedal cycles (pedelecs) with motors up to 250 W and assisted speed up to 25 km/h are classified under CN code 871200 as bicycles. CN code 871160 covers electric motorcycles - vehicles with electric motors exceeding 250 W, vehicles without pedals, or vehicles with assistance above 25 km/h (speed pedelecs). Correct classification is important as duty rates and type-approval requirements differ significantly.
What requirements apply when importing electric motorcycles CN 8711 60?
Importing electric motorcycles (CN 8711 60) requires two/three-wheel vehicle type-approval (EU) 168/2013, an EORI number and customs declaration. The MFN rate for motorcycles is 6% or 8% depending on engine size. Import VAT applies.
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