How to Choose an Electric Scooter in 2025: The Complete Guide for Italy
The electric scooter has become one of the most popular ways to get around Italian cities. Light, cheap to run and practical for urban trips, it has won over millions of riders. But how do you pick the right one? This guide answers all the key questions.
First question: how will you use it?
Choosing a scooter mainly comes down to how you plan to ride it. Here are the most common profiles:
- Urban commuter: 5-15 km a day, paved roads, needs to be easy to park
- Occasional use: weekend rides, mixed surfaces, not necessarily every day
- Long distances: trips of 20+ km, needs plenty of range
- Combined with public transport: the scooter travels with you on the train or bus
The technical specs to look at
Battery range
Range is often overstated by manufacturers (the figures are measured in ideal conditions). As a rule of thumb, treat 70% of the claimed value as the real-world range in normal conditions.
- For trips up to 15 km: 200-300 Wh is enough
- For trips of 15-30 km: look at 400-500 Wh
- For trips over 30 km: aim for at least 500 Wh
Motor power
The motor's nominal power affects how the scooter performs on hills and how quickly it accelerates:
- 250-300W: ideal for flat cities and short trips
- 350-450W: good all-round performance, suited to mixed terrain
- 500W+: for demanding climbs or long rides
Tyres: solid or pneumatic?
Your choice of tyres has a big impact on ride comfort:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Solid | No punctures, zero maintenance | Less comfortable on rough roads |
| Pneumatic (air-filled) | Better comfort, better grip | Puncture risk (reduced with self-healing) |
| Self-healing | Good comfort + puncture protection | Slightly heavier |
Braking system
The most common braking systems are:
- Mechanical disc brake: good performance, easy to maintain
- Hydraulic disc brake: superior performance, found on top-of-the-range models
- Electronic brake (KERS): recovers energy while braking, almost always paired with mechanical brakes
Weight and folding
If you need to carry your scooter into the office or onto public transport, weight matters a lot. Scooters range from 12 kg (compact models) up to 25+ kg (premium models). Almost every consumer model folds.
Italian rules on electric scooters
In Italy, electric scooters are regulated by the Highway Code (Codice della Strada). The main rules in force:
- Maximum permitted speed: 25 km/h (6 km/h in pedestrian areas)
- Helmet required for riders under 18
- Riding on pavements is not allowed
- Front and rear lights are required at night
- Minimum age: 14
- Carrying passengers is not allowed
Note: the rules are subject to updates. Always check the local provisions of your municipality, which may be stricter.
The most reliable brands in 2025
Among the most widespread and reliable manufacturers on the Italian market you'll find:
- Segway Ninebot: market leader, wide range, excellent support
- Xiaomi: good value for money, extremely widespread
- Inokim: premium quality, great for professional use
- Kaabo: powerful models for intensive use
Budget: how much should you spend?
| Budget | Segment | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Under 300€ | Entry level | Occasional use, limited range, basic components |
| 300–600€ | Mid range | Good range, reliable components, daily use |
| 600–1.000€ | Premium | High range, disc brakes, puncture-resistant tyres |
| Over 1.000€ | Top of the range | Maximum performance, long life, intensive daily use |
To discover the advanced configuration options for your Segway Ninebot, visit our product section or read the Frequently Asked Questions.