Pilot scheme for mobility scooters
Universal accessibility is one of TMB’s strategic values. We are working to reconcile the needs of public mobility as we move towards providing public transport for all. On 26 June 2017, in response to the increase in electronic support devices available to people with reduced mobility, a pilot test was launched that allows mobility scooters to access buses and metro trains circulating within the metropolitan area of Barcelona. This test was extended in 2019 to Bus Metropolità routes operated by AMB, and to Trambaix and Trambesòs routes. This extension has involved the participation of up to 21 municipalities of the metropolitan area of Barcelona in the pilot test. The list of authorized models of scooters to access this transport, has also be increased from 9 to 19 suitable models.
The main objective of this trial is to guarantee access to public transport for people with reduced mobility, while at the same time ensuring their safety and that of the other passengers to achieve a harmonious coexistence.
The pilot test will serve to define the criteria for regulating access which are due to be approved shortly.
The Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Families of the Government of Catalonia has proposed the technical characteristics used to determine which scooters can be included in the pilot test. The main criterion is to guarantee both the safety of the scooter user and that of the other passengers.
What is a scooter?
It is a product that supports mobility. It will be equipped with a motorised wheelchair in respect of accessing public transport so long as it complies with the conditions of safety and use established by the pilot test. The regulation for its use is the same as applied to wheelchairs as detailed in the Passenger Regulations.
On the bus:
- They are authorised to enter via the central door in order to be able to use the access ramp.
- Inside the vehicle they have to position themselves in the reserved space.
- Using a seat belt is compulsory as is the use of other safety features the vehicle may have.
- The scooter should face the opposite way from the direction of travel, supported by the usual backrest for such use and with the brakes applied.
On the metro:
- They must be positioned in the area reserved for wheelchairs.
Access requirements:
- The scooter must appear on the list of authorised vehicles.
- The scooter should have an identification plaque and an accreditation issued by the Municipal Institute for People with Disabilities (IMPD).
- Bus and metro staff are authorised to request the appropriate accreditation which should be presented on the spot. To obtain the personal accreditation and the identification plaque for the scooter you can apply to: IMPD Customer Service, Carrer València, 344, planta baixa.
- Your scooter must display the special IMPD sign visibly.
