Renault has announced that the Twizy EV can now be driven by 14-year-olds. The French manufacturer explains that under a new legislation 14-year-olds with BSR (Brevet de Securite; Routiere) road safety certificates are authorised to drive 'light motorised quadricycles', which were previously reserved for individuals aged 16 and over.
The AM license, formerly Road Safety Certificate (BSR) authorises the holder to drive a moped or a light quadricycle from the age of 14 in France. Strict parameters are set for a vehicle to qualify under this license, which includes things like the maximum power generated by the engine should be 4 Kw (5bhp) and the maximum speed should be limited to 45Km/h.
Renault took up this challenge and has made a slower and lighter version of the Twizy 80 and calls it the Twizy 45. It has a 5bhp churning electric motor that, as the name suggests, can reach a top speed of 45Km/h. The 6.1kWh lithium-ion pack is the same one that powers the Twizy's more powerful cousin but lesser performance translates into lower battery drain and that's why the maximum range climbs from 100Km to 120Km.
Renault suggests that 14-year-olds can buy the Twizy 45 as an alternative to scooters with levels of safety and comfort superior to those offered by two-wheelers. Safety equipment in the Twizy 45 includes an airbag (standard), double seatbelts, disc brakes, and a protective cell.
