In 2024 there are new laws set to come into effect allowing pedal-less light electric vehicles in Japan. The rules include not requiring a helmet, not requiring a licence, no under 16s and a max speed of 20kph.

It will be interesting to see how this affects the 50cc and below vehicle class, which require helmets, have a speed limit of 30kph (somewhat enforced, often broken) and are required to make a two-step right turn on larger junctions.

It might be good timing to re-assess the rules for 50cc vehicles. Driving at 30kph while traffic is going past you at double the speed is more dangerous than moving with traffic. Differential speed limits have been shown to be unsafe and modern 50cc scooters can keep up with all but the fastest city traffic.