Will Inmetro force me to replace my e-scooter battery now in 2026?

No. The study is ongoing and there is no regulation in effect yet. Your current battery remains valid. Any changes will be future and announced with advance notice.

What is the range of an electric e-scooter?

Typical range is between 20 to 40 km per charge, depending on the model and usage conditions. Replacement batteries with the same specifications maintain this range.

How do I know if a replacement battery is compatible with my e-scooter?

Check the original voltage (V) and capacity (Ah) from your e-scooter's documentation or current battery label. The replacement must have exactly the same values. In doubt, seek specialized technical support.

Is a very cheap generic battery reliable?

Be skeptical. Prices well below market usually indicate questionable quality, batteries without BMS, or actual capacity different from what's advertised. Invest in parts from a trusted supplier with warranty and receipt.

How much does it cost to charge an e-scooter in Maringá, Brazil?

Between R$ 0.10 to R$ 0.30 (approx. USD 0.02–0.06) per full charge, based on local electricity rates. A very low cost that makes e-scooters an economical transport alternative.

New E-Scooter Replacement Battery Rules Under Review by Brazil's Inmetro in 2026

Brazil's National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (Inmetro) is developing technical regulations specifically for lithium-ion replacement batteries used in electric scooters and micro-mobility devices. The work began in March 2025 and is currently under review through a dedicated Working Group on electromobility. While there is no official regulation in effect yet, this initiative signals a trend toward stricter technical requirements for replacement batteries sold separately in Brazil in the coming years.

The good news: you don't need to change anything right now. Any changes will be future and gradual. But it's time to understand the context, what's being studied, and how to ensure your replacement battery is safe and compatible with your e-scooter.

In this guide, we explain Inmetro's initiative, what it means in practice, and how to choose the right battery today.

What Inmetro is studying regarding replacement batteries

Inmetro, through its Directorate of Conformity Assessment, created a Working Group focused on electromobility. One of the key areas of study is precisely the technical regulation for lithium-ion replacement batteries intended for e-scooters, electric bikes, and similar micro-mobility equipment.

The instrument being used consists of two Regulatory Impact Analyses (RIA), as per Decree No. 10.411/2020. These analyses evaluate whether technical regulation is necessary, identify current problems, and study alternatives before any official decision.

The studies are expected to be completed by December 2026. The topic is included in the 2025 Regulatory Agenda and has been maintained in the 2026/2027 agendas, showing genuine commitment to the issue.

Why Inmetro is creating this standard

Replacement batteries sold separately (outside original equipment) are growing in demand as the e-scooter market expands. Currently, there is no specific technical regulation for these components in Brazil, creating a safety and standardization gap.

An inadequate battery—with incorrect voltage, incorrectly declared capacity, or without a Battery Management System (BMS)—can damage your e-scooter, reduce range, or present risks. The regulation aims to ensure that any replacement battery meets minimum technical criteria, regardless of supplier.

There is also a second study front within the Working Group: charging infrastructure systems for electric vehicle charging stations (SAVE in Portuguese). However, this does not affect e-scooters; it is exclusive to charging larger vehicles.

What changes now and what changes later

TODAY (October 2026): Nothing changes. The study is ongoing. Replacement batteries continue to be sold and installed as per current practice. There is no regulation in effect, so no new requirements.

FUTURE (after study completion): When (and if) the technical regulation is approved, battery manufacturers and suppliers will have to meet the established criteria. For the end user, this will mean greater safety, transparency in specifications, and greater reliability of parts available on the market.

For now, the focus is on the study. No battery needs to be discarded, and no user is obligated to rush purchases or replacements.

How to choose the correct replacement battery now

While Inmetro's regulation is pending, you can (and should) ensure that any replacement battery you buy is safe and compatible with your e-scooter. Here are the essential points:

Respect original voltage and capacity: Your e-scooter works with a specific battery (for example, 36V/10Ah or 48V/13Ah). Any replacement must have exactly the same values. Incorrect voltage or capacity will damage the motor and controller.
Check for BMS (Battery Management System): A quality replacement battery must include a BMS—electronic protection that prevents overcharging, overdischarging, and short circuits. Without it, you risk damaging your scooter or creating a safety hazard.
Verify cell quality: Reputable brands use Samsung, LG, or Panasonic cells. Generic or unknown cells may have lower durability and unpredictable performance. Check the packaging and certification.
Choose a reliable supplier: Buy from authorized retailers or specialists who can provide documentation, invoice, and warranty. Avoid extremely cheap alternatives sold on unverified marketplaces—they often hide quality issues.
Check compatibility with your model: Even if voltage and capacity match, some scooters use proprietary connectors or controllers. When in doubt, consult the manufacturer or a specialized technician before purchasing.

Inmetro regulation: a step toward safer micro-mobility

The regulation under study is not a restriction or bad news—it's a step toward maturity of the Brazilian e-scooter market. When approved, it will standardize quality and protect both users and responsible suppliers.

In the meantime, follow the guidelines above and make informed choices. Your safety and the longevity of your scooter depend on it.