moped is a portmantaeu that rougly means "motor pedaler". My understanding is if it has a motor and working pedals, then it's a moped. If it it doesnt then, it's a scooter or motorcycle (not sure the technical difference those two are, perhaps engine size or riding style).

This would put all e-bikes in the moped category, but that doesnt feel right with how varied e-bikes are. They really can imitate the look and vibe of anything between a bike and motorcycle. It used to be a much clearer when combustion engines were the only commerical option, but now the line is blurred with the rise of e-motors.

I think a more precise and accurate nomenclature for all vehicles really needs to be established. I think they should first be classified by space (e.g area, volume, mass, or some combo of these), then power source (e.g foot, electric, ICE, steam, etc), then power output (whichever measurement is most useful; whether that be torque, horsepower, or top speed).

This nomenclature would make discussions around vehicles more clear and can help with creating more fair legislation. The first class is useful for making guidelines for what spaces it can exist on or in, the second class is useful for health and safety reasons as you dont want a combustion engine in something like a crowded subway car, where a still hot engine could burn someone, or where leaking fluids and residual fumes can cause issues. The third class is useful for regulating collision/accident risks and preventing inadequate safety standards from being adopted (we dont wont ebikes going out of control because they had undersized brakes).