An electric scooter rental company in Pattaya has been instructed by Pattaya police and city officials to temporarily halt its operations pending investigation into its compliance with the Thai traffic laws.

On May 17th, 2024, Pattaya police and relevant officials visited the headquarters of Gogo Transtech Co., Ltd., an electric scooter rental company operating in Pattaya. The inspection was conducted following concerns from residents regarding whether the company’s rental blue electric scooters are legal to be driven on public roads or not.

Concerned citizens also expressed their reservations around the possible safety of the bikes and legality around what a customer would need to operate one while adhering to Thai law.

During the visit, authorities found hundreds of electric scooters parked at the company’s facility. Ms. Nee, no last name provided, an administrative officer at the company, explained to authorities that the scooters are classified as electric bicycles with a maximum speed of 25 kilometers per hour. They can travel up to 45 kilometers on a single charge and have a power output of 250 watts. The scooters are environmentally friendly, safe, and do not produce harmful emissions, Ms. Nee said.


Ms. Nee further explained that the rental fee for the first 5 kilometers is 3 baht, and then it increases to 5 baht per kilometer thereafter. Users can rent the scooters through a mobile app. She claimed that her company’s rental scooter services have been very popular in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, particularly among students and tourists who need to travel short distances within city centers.


If the scooters are driven outside of the designated areas, they will automatically shut down as a safety precaution for the riders. In case of accidents, the company also provides insurance coverage of up to 500,000 baht for the riders, Ms. Nee stated.

After the inspection, a meeting was held at the Pattaya Police Station to discuss the legality of Gogo Transtech’s services. The meeting was attended by representatives from various agencies, including the Banglamung District Permanent Secretary, tourist police, immigration police, Pattaya City officials, and Mr. Chan Pusam, the owner and manager of Gogo Transtech Co., Ltd.


The meeting focused on finding solutions related to the legal aspects of the company’s business registration, as well as the regulations for renting and operating electric scooters on public roads.


The Pattaya Police then contacted the Banglamung District Transportation Office to discuss legal licensing requirements for operating such scooters on public roads. However, it was understood that the registration process has been delayed due to uncertainties regarding the vehicle classification, charging power, and engine capacity, which reportedly do not meet certain legal standards.

Nevertheless, Mr. Chan, the company’s owner, told authorities that he is willing to take responsibility for any issues that arise and to comply with all legal requirements.


He stated that the company is committed to adapting its operations to align with all legal regulations. He also pointed out that similar electric scooter rental services are already operating in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and some universities. Gogo Transtech Co., Ltd. is a legally registered company that has been operating for almost two years in Thailand, he said.


Mr. Chan further explained that the company provides accident insurance for all riders. He also announced that a meeting with the company’s legal team and relevant government agencies will be held on Monday, May 20th, to seek clarification on the matter.

At the end of the meeting, Pattaya City officials made a decision to temporarily suspend the operation of Gogo Transtech’s services in the city until the legality surrounding the services is clear. Another meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 20th.

UPDATE: Pattaya Electric Scooter Rental Company Instructed by City Officials to Temporarily Halt Business - The Pattaya News