Why do we talk about homologation for some electric bikes and only about CE conformity for others? It all depends on the legal status of the vehicle. In Europe as in Switzerland, a distinction is made between electric bikes up to 25 km/h (EPAC in the sense of the standards) and fast electric bikes up to 45 km/h (often called speed bikes), which are considered L1e-B mopeds. The former are subject to an EC declaration of conformity provided by the manufacturer; the latter to a type approval with certificate of conformity (CoC) and registration.
In Switzerland, fast electric bikes are driven with a yellow license plate and third-party liability insurance , specific equipment (including the now mandatory speedometer), and dedicated traffic rules. And since July 2025, a new category of “heavy” electric bikes (e.g., certain multi-lane cargo ships) up to 450 kg including load has its own rules.
EPAC ≤ 25 km/h: CE conformity, no type approval
An electric bicycle ≤ 25 km/h is not “approved” in the sense of mopeds: it is placed on the market under CE marking . The manufacturer certifies conformity via an EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC) which is based on the harmonized standard EN 15194 (mechanical/electrical safety, electromagnetic compatibility, braking with engine cut-off, user information, etc.).
On the power side, an important nuance: in the European Union , the EPAC is defined with continuous nominal power ≤ 250 W. In Switzerland , the “slow” category (≤ 25 km/h) is tolerated up to 500 W according to local customs and information documents. In all cases, the assistance must cut out at 25 km/h (it can remain active below this, as long as the user is pedaling).
When purchasing, check:
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the CE plate/label on the frame,
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the Declaration of Conformity provided by the brand or importer,
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the mention of the EN 15194 standard in the documentation.
Electric bicycle ≤ 45 km/h (L1e-B): EU approval + Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
As soon as the assistance allows you to go beyond 25 km/h (up to 45 km/h ), the electric bike switches to category L1e-B (moped). It must be type-approved according to Regulation (EU) 168/2013 . Each vehicle produced in accordance with the approved type is delivered with a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) : this is the technical “identity card” of the vehicle, necessary for registration.
In Switzerland, a 45 km/h electric bike must be driven with a yellow plate and RC sticker , a compliant speedometer , a suitable helmet , and comply with the rules specific to its moped status. A manufacturer's plate (make, type, serial number, category) is also present on the frame.
New in Switzerland (2025): the category of “heavy” electric bikes
Since July 1, 2025 , Switzerland has introduced a subcategory of “heavy” mopeds that includes multi-track electric cargo bikes . These vehicles can reach a total weight of up to 450 kg (vehicle + load) with assistance up to 25 km/h and follow dedicated admission and usage rules (registration, equipment, circulation). The objective is to better integrate heavy cargo into public spaces by clarifying the conditions of use.
How to recognize a compliant or approved bicycle?
Electric bicycle ≤ 25 km/h (EPAC)
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CE marking visible on the frame.
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EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC) available (guide/notice or PDF).
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Reference to EN 15194 in the technical documentation.
There is no “CoC” for an EPAC: the DoC is the correct document.
Electric bike ≤ 45 km/h (L1e-B)
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CoC provided by the manufacturer (personal document linked to the serial number).
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Manufacturer's plate with type, category L1e-B, number.
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Cantonal registration (yellow plate + RC sticker) before driving on the road.
Obtain the “certificate” adapted to your case
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≤ 25 km/h : you do not “have a bike approved”; you request the Declaration of Conformity (DoC) from the manufacturer/importer (or the retailer). Keep DoC + invoice + manual.
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≤ 45 km/h : the CoC is provided by the manufacturer . With this document, you register the bike with your cantonal service (yellow plate, RC sticker). Parts, times and costs vary slightly depending on the canton.
Standards and markings to know
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EN 15194 (EPAC) : Requirements and test methods for electric bicycles up to 25 km/h . Technical basis for CE marking in this segment.
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Regulation (EU) 168/2013 (L-category) : framework for type approval (including L1e-B ), requires manufacturer's plate , CoC and detailed technical requirements.
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CE vs CoC : for a bike ≤ 25 km/h, the CE/DoC is sufficient; for a 45 km/h, you need type-approval + CoC .
Modifications and tuning: pay attention to legality and insurance
Releasing the speed limit on an electric bike to 25 km/h (or installing a “cheat box”) effectively transforms it into an unapproved L-category vehicle . This is illegal on the road , exposes you to insurance refusal in the event of a claim, and can lead to prosecution. Manufacturers and authorities point out that these manipulations are detectable and dangerous (braking, frames, warranty, etc.).
Quick steps (memo)
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Buyer ≤ 25 km/h : check CE + DoC + EN 15194 in the product sheet/instructions; keep the docs and serial numbers.
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Buyer ≤ 45 km/h : require the CoC , then request the yellow plate and the RC sticker from the cantonal service before any road use.
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Used / imported : without CoC for a 45 km/h, regularization is often long and uncertain . Choose an authorized dealer who provides the official documentation .
Reference table: CE (EPAC) vs CoC (L1e-B) vs “heavy electric bikes”
| Category | Speed / Power (markers) | Regulatory approach | Key document | Traffic in Switzerland |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric bicycle (EPAC) | ≤ 25 km/h (EU: ≤ 250 W; CH: up to 500 W depending on local information) | CE placing on the market | EU Declaration of Conformity citing EN 15194 | No specific registration |
| Fast electric bike (L1e-B) | ≤ 45 km/h | Type approval (EU 168/2013) | Certificate of Conformity (CoC) + manufacturer's plate | Yellow plate + RC sticker , speedometer, helmet |
| “Heavy” electric bike | Multi-lane, assistance ≤ 25 km/h, up to 450 kg (vehicle + load) | Specific Swiss rules (heavy moped) | File according to canton / type | Admission & dedicated equipment (OFROU) |
FAQ
Does an electric bike need to be approved to be driven in Switzerland?
No if it is ≤ 25 km/h : it must be CE compliant (EN 15194), without type approval. Yes if it is ≤ 45 km/h : it is subject to type approval with CoC , yellow plate and RC sticker .
How do I get a certificate for my electric bike?
For a ≤ 25 km/h , ask the manufacturer/importer for the EU Declaration of Conformity . For a ≤ 45 km/h , the CoC is provided by the manufacturer and is used for cantonal registration .
What to check on a CE-compliant bicycle?
CE marking on the frame, Declaration of Conformity which cites EN 15194 , conformity of electrical equipment and braking (engine cut-off when levers are operated).
What are the specific requirements for a 45 km/h speed limit in Switzerland?
Yellow plate + RC sticker , speedometer required, suitable helmet , and compliance with traffic rules specific to mopeds.
Are “heavy” electric cargo bikes allowed?
Yes. Since July 2025 , Switzerland has recognized a category for electric cargo bikes up to 450 kg (vehicle + load) with specific conditions of admission, equipment and use.
Is jailbreaking legal?
No. Releasing a bicycle ≤ 25 km/h makes it an unapproved L-category vehicle: illegal circulation, compromised insurance , technical and legal risks.
