TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — More than 80% of Taiwanese respondents want the government to step up efforts to promote electric scooters, according to a survey released Monday by the Smart Mobility Association of Taiwan.

The survey found that over half of respondents believe existing subsidies for electric scooters are ineffective, saying both central and local governments have been too slow to electrify private transportation.

Among gasoline scooter riders, 38% said the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ subsidies would make them more willing to switch to electric models. SMAT said this shows that financial incentives remain key to encouraging consumers to transition to electric vehicles.

According to the results, 82% of respondents want the ministry to resume subsidies for new electric motorcycles, giving first-time buyers greater motivation to make the switch. In addition, 59% supported electric battery purchase subsidies, while 70% favored a “green tax deduction” allowing electric vehicle purchases to be included as a special deduction in personal income tax.

Taiwan’s National Development Council has outlined a goal for all new car, scooter, and motorcycle sales to be electric by 2040, with the Ministry of Economic Affairs targeting 30% of new vehicle sales to be electric by 2030.

However, based on current data, SMAT estimates that electric scooters account for only about 6.8% of total scooter sales so far this year, far short of government goals.

SMAT Chair Chiu Chun-jung (邱俊榮) said the findings reflect strong public consensus in favor of promoting electric scooters, with many recognizing their environmental benefits. He urged the government to expand subsidies, reduce operating costs, and encourage manufacturers to share responsibility for carbon reduction.

Chiu also called on the government to accelerate transportation electrification by integrating central and local resources and maintaining consistent, long-term policies. “Electric scooters can become a key force in Taiwan’s transition to net-zero emissions,” he said, “helping the nation keep pace with international progress toward sustainability.”

The survey targeted Taiwan residents aged 18 and over who hold a scooter license. Conducted from Aug. 18–25, it collected 1,080 valid responses at a 95% confidence level, with a margin of error of ±2.98%.