'Completely unregulated': Vienna takes aim at e-vintage cars and rickshaws

A woman aged 33 was sexually assaulted during the day in Vienna, according to reports from local media. The incident occurred while she was fleeing her apartment, though details regarding the exact time and location remain under investigation. Authorities have confirmed the assault took place in the city, but specific streets or districts were not immediately disclosed. Police are currently examining the case and have urged witnesses to come forward with information. The attack has sparked public concern over safety in Vienna’s urban areas, particularly in neighborhoods known for high foot traffic and tourist activity. While the focus of recent news coverage has been on the growing number of electric vintage cars, known locally as E-Oldtimer, and their impact on city infrastructure, the sexual assault highlights broader issues of personal security and regulation. These vehicles, which can be driven by individuals as young as 16 without a license or insurance, have become a point of contention among officials and residents alike. The issue of E-Oldtimer has gained traction due to concerns over road safety and regulatory oversight. According to a report by the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, nearly 260 such vehicles were recorded in the city center last weekend, a fourfold increase compared to three years ago. Critics argue that these vehicles operate with minimal restrictions, including the absence of mandatory insurance, license plates, or seat belts. A spokesperson for the chamber warned that this leniency could lead to dangerous situations, especially given the high volume of tourists and pedestrians in central areas. Planungsstadträtin Ulli Sima of the SPÖ party has called for stricter regulations, emphasizing the need to close existing loopholes. She described the current system as “unverantwortlich” and noted that even minor infractions, such as failing to stop at a crosswalk, could result in serious consequences. Sima proposed measures including mandatory insurance, license plate requirements, and driver licensing for operators. Additionally, she suggested that commercial operators should face more stringent business regulations, requiring changes to both transportation laws and trade ordinances. The debate extends beyond E-Oldtimer, with similar concerns being raised about Faxis, bike taxis or rickshaws often used by tourists. These vehicles, which operate largely outside formal taxi regulations, have also been criticized for contributing to congestion and safety risks, particularly around popular tourist sites like the Stephansplatz. Sima pointed out that the area is already crowded due to large numbers of visitors and frequent train exits, making the presence of additional vehicles problematic. Efforts to address these issues have included recent bans on certain street vendors, such as Mozart sellers, in parts of the city center. However, the shift to Faxis has not resolved the underlying problems of regulation and space management. Local authorities continue to explore solutions, though progress has been slow. Meanwhile, incidents like the sexual assault underscore the urgent need for improved public safety measures and clearer enforcement of existing rules. As investigations into the assault continue, police have emphasized the importance of community cooperation in identifying potential suspects and gathering evidence. They have also reiterated the need for stronger protections against crime in public spaces. With ongoing discussions about transport policies and urban planning, the situation reflects a complex interplay between economic interests, regulatory frameworks, and public welfare. For now, the focus remains on resolving the immediate case while addressing systemic challenges that contribute to such incidents.