In April 2026, Inmetro (Brazil's National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology) published Ordinance No. 210, launching a regulatory process focused specifically on batteries for light electric vehicles — a category that includes e-scooters, e-bikes, and electric scooters. The goal is to assess whether these batteries require mandatory regulatory measures to reduce user safety risks and combat deceptive trade practices.

In plain terms: Inmetro is studying the creation of technical and certification standards for the batteries powering your micro-mobility equipment. Today, there is no specific mandatory requirement for e-scooter or e-bike batteries. But the trend is clear — preparing now is your best move.

This article explains what this regulatory assessment is, why it matters to you, and how to act while the official standard is still being developed.

What is Inmetro Ordinance 210/2026?

An ordinance is a document that authorizes Inmetro to begin a regulatory evaluation process. It's not an enforced standard — it's a preliminary step. The institution consults manufacturers, importers, retailers, laboratories, and conformity assessment bodies to collect data and opinions on micro-mobility batteries.

The central focus is safety (reducing failures, leaks, overcharging) and commercial transparency (ensuring actual capacity in Wh matches what's advertised, preventing counterfeits).

There is no published timeline and no obligation for buyers or sellers today. This is preparation for the near future.

Why is Inmetro focusing on batteries now?

Sales of e-scooters, e-bikes, and electric scooters have grown significantly in recent years across Brazil, including in Maringá. This growth created legitimate demand for standardization: consumers need to know that the battery they're buying is reliable and that the charger is compatible.

CONTRAN Resolution No. 996/2023 (Brazil's National Traffic Council) regulates the circulation of these vehicles (speed limits, age requirements, mandatory equipment). But it doesn't address battery technical specifications. This regulatory gap is what Inmetro wants to fill.

Additionally, industry reports indicate questionable trade practices: batteries with incorrectly declared capacity, charger incompatibility across models, lack of information about battery lifecycle and durability.

What's the difference between regulatory assessment and mandatory standards?

A regulatory assessment is studying before deciding. Inmetro brings together experts, hears from industry and retail, and collects safety and market data. Then it publishes a decision: it could be a mandatory standard, a voluntary standard, or even a conclusion that regulation isn't necessary.

A mandatory (or compulsory) standard forces every supplier to comply. Without certification, you can't legally sell. A voluntary standard is a recommendation — following it builds credibility and trust.

Today, e-scooter and e-bike batteries have no compulsory certification requirement in Brazil. Ordinance 210/2026 is the first step toward deciding if that changes.

What changes in practice right now?

Absolutely nothing — yet. You continue buying e-scooters and batteries the way you do today. There's no new legal obligation, no mandatory certificate, no deadline.

What does apply as of January 1, 2026, is full enforcement of CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023: your e-scooter or e-bike must respect speed limits (maximum 32 km/h for the equipment itself), require a helmet, include a speedometer, bell, and nighttime signaling.

In the city of Maringá, Municipal Law No. 11.981/2025 adds local rules: maximum 20 km/h on bike lanes and cycle tracks, maximum 6 km/h on sidewalks and public squares.

Why standardize batteries? The long-term view

Standardization brings three key benefits:

1. Safety for users: A certified battery meets performance and failure-prevention tests. It won't catch fire during normal charging, won't leak electrolyte, and won't fail suddenly mid-ride.

2. Consumer protection: A standard ensures the 10 Ah battery you buy actually stores 10 Ah (measured in Wh — watt-hours). It prevents fraud and makes it easier to compare products.

3. Market confidence: When standards exist, retailers and manufacturers who meet them gain competitive advantage. This raises the overall quality of what's available in the market.

What you should do right now

While Inmetro finalizes the standard, follow these protective steps:

  • Buy original batteries and chargers — not third-party clones. Original equipment carries manufacturer guarantees and traceability.
  • Request an invoice and warranty card — they document your purchase and protect your rights if something fails.
  • Avoid suspiciously cheap alternatives — counterfeit batteries are common in unregulated markets and pose real safety risks.
  • Check the seller's reputation — authorized retailers and specialized shops are more likely to stock genuine products.
  • Store and charge safely — follow manufacturer instructions, use the correct charger, and avoid extreme temperatures.

Timeline: What to expect

Inmetro's evaluation process typically follows this path:

2026 (current): Inmetro collects data from stakeholders, holds technical discussions, and publishes a preliminary assessment.

2027–2028: Possible publication of a technical standard proposal for public consultation and industry feedback.

2028+: If approved, the standard enters into force with a grace period for compliance.

This is an estimate based on how similar regulatory processes work in Brazil. Actual timelines can shift.