Unlocking the Full Potential: How to Remove Speed Limiter on Xiaomi Electric Scooters

Unlock the full potential of your Xiaomi electric scooter with this step-by-step guide on removing the built-in speed limiter. Boost performance while focusing on safety and legal requirements.

Electric scooters have revolutionized urban transportation, and Xiaomi stands as one of the world's most popular and trusted manufacturers. Their M365, M365 Pro, Pro 2, Essential, 1S, and newer models including the Xiaomi Electric Scooter 3, 4 Pro, and 4 Ultra are celebrated for sleek design, exceptional reliability, and competitive pricing. However, many owners discover that their Xiaomi electric scooter includes a built-in speed limiter—typically capping speeds at 15.5 mph (25 km/h)—designed to comply with regional regulations and ensure rider safety. This comprehensive 2024-2025 guide explores multiple methods for removing or modifying these speed restrictions, explains the technical requirements and tools needed, addresses crucial legal and safety considerations, and provides model-specific instructions to help you make an informed decision about unlocking your scooter's full potential.


Critical Legal, Safety, and Warranty Disclaimers


Before proceeding, understand these serious implications:



  • Warranty Voidance: Modifying your Xiaomi scooter's firmware or speed settings will immediately and permanently void your manufacturer's warranty. Xiaomi/Mi will refuse all warranty claims, repairs, and replacements if unauthorized modifications are detected, leaving you financially responsible for all future repairs even for unrelated issues.

  • Legal Violations: Many jurisdictions strictly regulate electric scooter maximum speeds. Common limits include 15.5 mph (25 km/h) in the EU, 15-20 mph in most US states and cities, and similar restrictions in Australia, UK, and other countries. Operating a modified scooter above legal limits can result in traffic citations and fines, confiscation of your vehicle, points on your driving record, invalidation of insurance coverage, and increased legal liability in accidents.

  • Safety Risks: Xiaomi engineers calibrate the 15.5 mph speed limit based on extensive testing of braking capacity, frame structural integrity, motor thermal limits, and overall stability. Exceeding these specifications significantly increases your risk of losing control, especially on uneven terrain or during emergency maneuvers, reduced braking effectiveness—brakes designed for 15.5 mph become dangerously inadequate at 20+ mph, increased likelihood of speed wobbles and instability, accelerated wear on motor, controller, battery, and mechanical components, potential motor or controller overheating leading to failure or fire risk, and severe injuries in accidents—crash severity increases exponentially with speed.

  • Insurance and Liability: If you're involved in an accident while riding a modified scooter, your insurance may deny coverage, and you may be held personally liable for all damages and medical expenses if modifications contributed to the incident.


This article is provided for educational and informational purposes only. We strongly recommend against illegal modifications and unsafe riding practices. Always verify local regulations, prioritize safety, and consider purchasing a scooter designed for higher speeds rather than modifying one engineered for lower speeds. Proceed entirely at your own risk.


Understanding Xiaomi Speed Limiters


Xiaomi implements speed limitations through sophisticated firmware controls embedded in the scooter's Electronic Speed Controller (ESC). Unlike simple mechanical governors, Xiaomi's speed limiting is software-based, making it modifiable but requiring firmware changes. The firmware architecture has evolved significantly since earlier models, with newer versions incorporating cryptographic signing and security measures that make unauthorized modification increasingly difficult.


Why Speed Limits Exist: The standard 15.5 mph (25 km/h) limit isn't arbitrary—it represents compliance with European Union regulations (the largest market for electric scooters), a speed considered reasonably safe for urban environments with pedestrians and mixed traffic, the maximum speed at which the scooter's brake system provides adequate stopping power with safety margins, and thermal limits of the motor and controller components during sustained operation.


Regional Variations: Xiaomi scooters sold in different regions may have different factory speed limits. EU models are typically limited to 25 km/h, US models may allow slightly higher speeds (around 15-18 mph), and Chinese domestic models sometimes have higher limits. The scooter's firmware includes region coding that enforces these limits. Some newer models (2024-2025) allow region changes through dedicated tools without full firmware reflashing.


Model Capabilities and Current Lineup (2024-2025): When unrestricted, different Xiaomi models have varying maximum capabilities. The M365 can reach approximately 18-20 mph (30-32 km/h), M365 Pro achieves 18-21 mph (30-34 km/h), Pro 2 reaches similar speeds to Pro with improved stability, Essential models reach 15-18 mph (25-30 km/h), 1S models achieve 18-20 mph (30-32 km/h), newer Xiaomi 3 series models reach 25-30 km/h when unrestricted, Xiaomi 4 Pro and 4 Ultra (2024-2025 models) can theoretically reach 40-45 km/h when fully unlocked, and these represent theoretical maximums under ideal conditions (flat ground, lightweight rider, full battery). Newer 2024-2025 models feature more restrictive firmware security, making modification increasingly challenging.


Firmware Security Evolution and 2024-2025 Challenges


A critical development affecting Xiaomi scooter modification is the implementation of cryptographic firmware signing starting with newer controller versions and models produced in 2023-2024. Xiaomi has implemented significant security upgrades to prevent unauthorized firmware modification, including cryptographic signing of firmware files using ecdsa-with-SHA256 algorithm, addition of crypto coprocessor chips to newer controllers, firmware files with "_signed" appendix and certificate verification, and complete separation from traditional Bluetooth flashing methods on the newest models.


This means older methods that worked reliably on M365 and original Pro models are increasingly ineffective on newer Pro 2 units produced in late 2023-2024, and virtually impossible on 2024-2025 models (Xiaomi 3, 4 Pro, 4 Ultra). Community developers continue working on workarounds, but success rates have declined significantly for the latest hardware.


Available Speed Unlocking Methods: 2024-2025 Overview


Several methods exist for modifying speed restrictions on Xiaomi scooters, each with different technical requirements, complexity levels, and risk profiles. However, the viability of these methods has become increasingly dependent on your scooter's production date and firmware version.


Method 1: Custom Firmware Flashing (Most Common Method, Older Models Only)


This approach involves creating and installing modified firmware that removes or adjusts speed limits and other performance parameters. This method is most reliable for M365, M365 Pro, and early Pro 2 units manufactured before mid-2024. Newer models with v2.4.8+ firmware or 2024-2025 production runs show significantly reduced success rates.


Requirements:



  • Android smartphone with Bluetooth 4.0+ (iOS devices are not compatible with flashing tools)

  • Custom firmware flashing app (m365 DownG, m365 Tools, or XiaoFlasher)

  • Custom firmware file generated from online tools

  • Charged scooter battery (at least 50%)

  • Scooter model and firmware version verification (success decreases dramatically with newer versions)

  • Basic understanding of firmware concepts and willingness to accept risks


Popular Firmware Generators (2024-2025):



  • Xiaomi M365 Custom Firmware Toolkit (m365.botox.bz): The original and most popular custom firmware generator for M365, M365 Pro, and compatible models. Offers extensive customization including speed limits, motor power curves, brake strength, cruise control, energy recovery, and more. Last updated May 2025.

  • ScooterHacking.org Xiaomi CFW Builder (mi.cfw.sh): Community-maintained firmware builder supporting multiple Xiaomi models with preset profiles and advanced customization options. Continues regular updates with workarounds for newer firmware versions. Updated March 2025.

  • HackM365.com Pro2 CFW: Specialized generator for Pro 2 models with versions including CFW V3 (v2.2.3) and CFW V4 (v1.5.5), though compatibility with 2024-2025 production units is limited.


Popular Flashing Apps (2024-2025 Compatibility):



  • m365 DownG: Available on Google Play Store (free), this is one of the most user-friendly options for flashing custom firmware to M365 series scooters. App automatically selects correct firmware for your model. Continues to work with older scooters but shows reduced compatibility with 2024-2025 hardware.

  • m365 Tools: Alternative app with similar functionality, available through APK downloads. Comparable success rates to DownG.

  • XiaoFlasher: Paid option (approximately €7.49) with more advanced features, enhanced support, and greater compatibility across Xiaomi and Ninebot models. Offers expanded control and debugging options. Works with both older and newer models but with variable success on 2024-2025 units.


Step-by-Step: Custom Firmware Flashing Process


Step 1: Verify Your Scooter Compatibility


Before investing time in flashing, check your current firmware version. Open the Mi Home app or Xiaomi companion app, connect to your scooter, and note the displayed firmware version. Models with firmware v2.4.8 or higher show significantly reduced modification success. Scooters manufactured in 2024-2025 frequently resist modification attempts. Visit ScooterHacking.org forums to search your specific model number and production date—community members report which versions and dates remain compatible. Understanding your scooter's modification likelihood before starting the process prevents wasted effort.


Step 2: Generate Custom Firmware


Visit the Xiaomi M365 Custom Firmware Toolkit at m365.botox.bz or the ScooterHacking.org CFW Builder at mi.cfw.sh (updated March 2025). Select your exact scooter model from the dropdown menu (M365, M365 Pro, Pro 2, Essential, 1S, etc.)—selecting the wrong model can damage your scooter. Choose your current firmware version or select "Auto" if unsure. Configure your desired settings. For speed modifications, the key settings include Maximum Speed (be conservative—start with 30 km/h rather than maximum values), Motor Power Multiplier (controls acceleration and hill-climbing), Cruise Control (enable/disable and set activation speed), Brake Strength (maintain or slightly increase for safety at higher speeds), and Energy Recovery (regenerative braking strength).


Important Safety Recommendations: Don't immediately jump to maximum values. Increase speeds gradually (try 27-28 km/h first, then 30 km/h if comfortable). Maintain brake strength at 100% or higher—never reduce brakes when increasing speed. Consider enabling stronger energy recovery for additional braking assistance. Once configured, click "Generate" or "Build Firmware." Download the generated .bin file to your Android device. Remember the filename or rename it for easy identification.


Step 3: Install Flashing App on Android Device


Download and install m365 DownG from Google Play Store (most straightforward option and free), or download m365 Tools or XiaoFlasher APK files from trusted sources if DownG isn't available or if you prefer advanced features. If installing APK files, enable "Install from Unknown Sources" in your Android settings temporarily. Grant the app all requested permissions, particularly Bluetooth and Location (Android requires location permission for Bluetooth scanning).


Step 4: Prepare Your Scooter


Charge your Xiaomi scooter to at least 50% battery—low battery during flashing can cause failures or incomplete installations. Power on your scooter normally. Ensure you're in an area with minimal electromagnetic interference (away from large electronic equipment). Position yourself close to the scooter (within 3-6 feet) for stable Bluetooth connection throughout the flashing process.


Step 5: Connect to Your Scooter via App


Open your flashing app (m365 DownG, m365 Tools, or XiaoFlasher). Enable Bluetooth on your Android device if not already active. In the app, tap "Connect" or "Search" to scan for nearby scooters. Your scooter should appear in the list, typically displayed as "MiScooter" followed by numbers, "Xiaomi" with identifier, or similar naming. Select your scooter from the list to establish connection. Once connected, the app will display current scooter information including current firmware version, battery level, total mileage/odometer, temperature readings, and other diagnostic data.


Step 6: Backup Original Firmware (Highly Recommended)


If your app supports it, create a backup of your original firmware before flashing custom firmware. Look for options like "Backup BMS," "Backup DRV," or "Read Firmware." Save these backup files to a safe location on your device or cloud storage. These backups allow you to restore factory settings if something goes wrong, if you need warranty service (restore before sending for repair), or if you decide to sell the scooter.


Step 7: Load and Flash Custom Firmware


In your flashing app, locate the firmware upload function—typically labeled "Open BIN," "Load Firmware," "Flash," or similar. Navigate to where you saved the custom firmware .bin file and select it. The app will analyze the firmware file and display components to flash. Common components include BMS (Battery Management System)—controls battery-related functions, DRV (Driver/ESC)—the main controller that manages motor and speed, and sometimes BLE (Bluetooth)—though usually not necessary to flash for speed modifications.


Critical Firmware Selection: For speed limit removal, you typically need to flash both BMS and DRV. Some users only flash DRV, but flashing both ensures complete compatibility. Select the components to flash (usually check boxes for BMS and DRV). Review the firmware summary one final time to confirm settings. Tap "Flash," "Flash Selected," or equivalent button to begin the process.


During Flashing Process: The app will display progress for each component being flashed (usually takes 2-5 minutes total). Do NOT power off your scooter during this process. Do NOT close the app or let your phone screen timeout. Do NOT disconnect Bluetooth or move away from the scooter. Keep your phone charged or plugged in to prevent shutdown. Interrupting the flash process can "brick" your scooter, rendering it non-functional and requiring professional repair or replacement of the controller.


Step 8: Verify and Test


Once flashing completes successfully, the app will display a confirmation message. Power off your scooter completely and wait 10-15 seconds. Power the scooter back on and reconnect to the app. Verify the new firmware version is displayed correctly. Check that your custom settings are active (some apps show current configuration). Perform initial testing in a safe, controlled environment—empty parking lot or closed private area. Start slowly and test acceleration and braking before attempting higher speeds. Gradually increase speed to test the new limits. Pay attention to any unusual sounds, vibrations, or behaviors. Test braking repeatedly at various speeds to ensure stopping power is adequate. Monitor motor temperature after rides—excessive heat indicates you may have exceeded motor design limits.


Method 2: Region Change via XiaoFlasher (Simpler Alternative, Limited Compatibility)


Some Xiaomi scooters, particularly newer models (2024-2025), can be unlocked by changing the region setting from a restricted region (like EU) to a less restricted region without installing full custom firmware. This method has become more viable as Xiaomi implements protections against full firmware modification.


Requirements:



  • Android device with Bluetooth

  • XiaoFlasher app (available on Google Play Store for €7.49 or via APK)

  • Compatible scooter model (works best on newer models like Pro 2, Essential, 1S, and 2024-2025 models where firmware version makes custom firmware modification impossible)


Process:



  1. Download and install XiaoFlasher on your Android device

  2. Power on your scooter and connect via the app

  3. Navigate to region settings (usually under "Tools" or "Settings" in the app)

  4. Change region from current setting to "US" (United States) which typically unlocks speeds up to 30 km/h, or select other regions with higher predefined limits

  5. Apply the change and restart your scooter

  6. Test in a safe area to verify the speed increase


Advantages Over Custom Firmware: Region changes are sometimes successful even on 2024-2025 models where custom firmware flashing fails. Process is simpler and faster than full firmware generation. Less risk of "bricking" your scooter compared to firmware flashing.


Limitations: This method doesn't work on all Xiaomi models—older M365 models may not support simple region changes. Some firmware versions (particularly v2.4.8+) have protections against region modification. The speed increase is limited to predefined regional maximums rather than fully customizable like custom firmware. Region changes may reset after Xiaomi pushes firmware updates. Success rates are highly variable based on production date—check community forums for your specific model.


Model-Specific Considerations and 2024-2025 Known Issues


M365 (Original): Most compatible with custom firmware tools. Wide community support and documentation. Older models with V1-V2 controllers flash easily. Some very early units may have compatibility issues with newer apps. Modification success rate: 95%+


M365 Pro / Pro 2: Excellent custom firmware support, especially for units manufactured before mid-2023. Pro 2 (2020-2022) models respond well to flashing. Pro 2 units produced in late 2023-2024 show reduced success due to firmware v2.4.8+ protections. Some users report XiaoFlasher unable to modify newer controller versions (v3.1+). Community continues developing workarounds for protected firmware. Modification success rate for pre-2024 units: 85-90%; 2024-2025 units: 30-40%


Essential / Essential Lite: Generally compatible with firmware modifications. Limited to lower maximum speeds even when unlocked (typically maxes around 28-30 km/h). Smaller motor and battery limit performance gains. Modification success rate: 80%


1S Model: Good firmware modification support. Similar capabilities to M365 Pro when unlocked. Standard flashing procedures apply. Some 2024 production units show resistance to modification. Modification success rate: 85%


Xiaomi 3 and 3 Lite EU (2023-2024): Newer architecture with increased security protections. Custom firmware modification success is limited. Region change method shows better results on some units. Modification success rate: 40-50%


Xiaomi 4 Pro and 4 Ultra (2024-2025): Latest generation with comprehensive firmware security. Traditional Bluetooth flashing methods rarely work. Cryptographic signing makes unauthorized modification extremely difficult. Community has not yet developed reliable workarounds. Modification success rate: 5-15% at best. These models are effectively not modifiable with current tools as of October 2025.


2024-2025 Production Warnings: Xiaomi has implemented increasing firmware protections on recent production runs. Controllers with firmware version 2.4.8 or higher strongly resist modification attempts. Downgrading firmware often fails due to built-in protections. Crypto coprocessor chips in newer units prevent traditional Bluetooth modification. Check ScooterHacking.org forums updated in 2024-2025 for latest compatibility information before purchasing specifically for modification. If modification is your goal, prioritize older used models rather than new 2024-2025 purchases.


Troubleshooting Common Issues


App Won't Connect to Scooter:



  • Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and scooter is powered on

  • Grant all app permissions (Bluetooth, Location)

  • Forget/unpair the scooter from Android Bluetooth settings if it appears there—connect only through the flashing app

  • Try force-closing the app and reopening

  • Restart both phone and scooter

  • Move closer to the scooter (within 3 feet)

  • For newer 2024-2025 models showing persistent connection issues, your firmware may have cryptographic protections making modification impossible with current tools


Flashing Fails or Shows Errors:



  • Verify you selected the correct scooter model in the firmware generator

  • Ensure battery is sufficiently charged (50%+ recommended)

  • Check that firmware file isn't corrupted—re-download if necessary

  • Try flashing only DRV first, then BMS separately

  • Some users report better success with older versions of flashing apps

  • If flashing fails repeatedly, your scooter may have v2.4.8+ firmware or be a 2024-2025 production model with cryptographic protections—check community forums for your specific model serial number


Scooter Won't Start After Flashing (Bricked):



  • Try restoring from backup firmware if you created one

  • Attempt to reflash with original firmware (download stock firmware from Xiaomi sources)

  • Leave scooter powered off for 10-15 minutes, then attempt connection again

  • Contact experienced community members on forums like ScooterHacking.org

  • In severe cases, controller replacement may be necessary ($80-$150 typically)


Speed Limit Didn't Change:



  • Verify you actually flashed the DRV component (this controls speed)

  • Check that you're in Sport mode—modified firmware typically only affects Sport mode

  • Confirm firmware generator settings were saved correctly in your .bin file

  • Try regenerating firmware with more conservative speed increases

  • Some scooters require both BMS and DRV to be flashed for changes to take effect

  • For 2024-2025 models, failure to achieve speed changes likely indicates firmware security protections preventing modification


Maintaining a Modified Scooter


Operating your Xiaomi scooter at higher speeds accelerates component wear and requires more attentive maintenance:



  • Brake Inspection: Check brake pads monthly—higher speeds mean more frequent braking and faster wear. Replace pads when worn to 2-3mm thickness. Ensure brake cables remain tight and properly adjusted. At increased speeds, consider upgrading to higher-performance brake pads.

  • Tire Maintenance: Maintain proper tire pressure (check weekly)—under-inflated tires are dangerously unsafe at high speeds. Inspect for wear, cracks, or damage more frequently. Replace tires proactively—don't wait until tread is completely gone. Consider upgrading to higher-quality tire models rated for higher speed operation.

  • Battery Monitoring: Higher speeds drain battery faster and generate more heat. Monitor battery health through the Mi Home app or diagnostics. Charge after each ride when possible rather than deep discharging. Expect reduced battery lifespan—high-speed operation accelerates degradation significantly. Some modified scooters show 20-30% reduced range.

  • Motor Inspection: Listen for unusual sounds (grinding, clicking, buzzing). Feel motor temperature after rides—it should be warm but not painfully hot to touch. Excessive heat indicates you may be exceeding motor design limits. In extreme cases, overheating can damage motor windings irreparably.

  • Frame and Hardware: Check all bolts and screws monthly—vibration at higher speeds can loosen fasteners. Inspect folding mechanism for wear or cracks. Examine frame for stress cracks, especially near welds and connection points. High-speed operation accelerates structural fatigue.



Understanding and following local laws is essential when operating a modified scooter:


United States (2024-2025): Federal guidelines don't specifically limit e-scooter speeds, but states and cities impose restrictions. Common limits are 15-20 mph on roads and bike lanes. Modified scooters exceeding limits can result in citations ($100-$300 typical fines), vehicle impoundment, and liability issues in accidents. Some states have begun stricter enforcement targeting modified scooters.


European Union (2024-2025): EU regulations limit e-scooters to 25 km/h (15.5 mph) for legal road use. Exceeding this classifies the scooter as a motor vehicle requiring registration, insurance, license, helmet compliance, and other requirements. Penalties for non-compliance can be substantial. Some EU countries enforce regulations more strictly than others.


United Kingdom: Private e-scooters are largely restricted from public roads and paths. Rental scooters are limited to 15.5 mph. Operating modified private scooters on public property risks fines and confiscation.


Australia: Each state has different regulations, typically limiting speeds to 25 km/h. Modified scooters may be illegal on public infrastructure with potential for fines and confiscation.


Other Countries: Laws vary widely—research your specific country and municipality before modifying or operating at higher speeds. Many jurisdictions continue strengthening e-scooter regulations in 2024-2025.


Best Practices for Modified Scooters: Use higher speeds only on private property or dedicated paths where legal. Reduce speed in crowded areas, around pedestrians, and in poor weather. Be aware others expect slower scooter speeds and may not anticipate your approach. Consider that you're personally liable for accidents involving modified vehicles. Never loan modified scooters to inexperienced riders who may not handle higher speeds safely.


Safer Alternatives to Modification


If you want higher speeds but have concerns about modification risks, consider these alternatives:



  • Purchase a Higher-Performance Scooter: Many manufacturers offer scooters designed for 20-30+ mph with appropriate braking, frame strength, and motor capacity. Models to consider include Segway Ninebot Max Plus (18-20 mph, designed for that speed), Apollo City/Explore (25-31 mph with superior brakes and suspension), Kaabo Mantis (35+ mph, high-performance design), Dualtron series (30-50+ mph, premium performance scooters), and newer Xiaomi models designed for higher speeds (though these have equal modification restrictions as older models).

  • Optimize Your Current Scooter: Maximize M365 performance within safe limits through proper tire pressure (dramatically affects efficiency and safety), full battery charges before rides, reducing carried weight, regular maintenance (clean motor, lubricate moving parts), and upgrading tires to higher-quality models for better grip.

  • Accept Design Limitations: Recognize that the M365 was engineered as an affordable, safe urban commuter at 15.5 mph. Pushing beyond design limits compromises the engineering that makes it reliable and safe. The scooter performs excellently at its intended speed range.


Cost-Benefit Analysis: Modification vs. New Scooter (2024-2025 Perspective)


Consider whether modification makes financial and practical sense in 2024-2025:


Modification Costs and Risks: Direct costs are minimal (free firmware, free/low-cost apps), but you risk voiding $200-$400 warranty coverage, potential controller damage requiring $80-$150 repair, accelerated component wear (tires, brakes, battery) costing $50-$200 annually, legal fines if caught ($100-$300+), and insurance liability if involved in an accident. Additionally, 2024-2025 hardware increasingly resists modification, making success rates much lower than in previous years. You may invest time and effort with zero results.


New High-Performance Scooter Costs (2024-2025): Entry-level performance scooters cost $500-$800, mid-range performance models cost $800-$1500, and high-end scooters cost $1500-$3000+. These come with warranties covering high-speed operation, proper braking systems designed for higher speeds, legal operation within design specifications, and better components throughout. 2024-2025 models feature even better technology than older high-performance scooters.


Consideration: If you already own a pre-2023 M365 and want slightly more speed (18-20 mph), modification might make sense if you understand the risks and community reports success for your model. If you own a 2024-2025 model, modification is unlikely to succeed—accept the design specifications or upgrade. If you want significantly higher performance (25+ mph), purchasing a scooter designed for those speeds is safer and more practical. If you're considering buying an M365 specifically to modify it, you're better off spending that money on a higher-performance model from the start.


Future of Scooter Modification and Industry Trends


The landscape of electric scooter modification has changed dramatically in 2024-2025. Xiaomi's implementation of cryptographic firmware signing and hardware protections represents a deliberate shift away from user-modifiable devices. This reflects broader industry trends prioritizing regulatory compliance, warranty protection, and safety standardization. Community developers continue pursuing workarounds, but the technical barriers increase with each new generation. The modification community that thrived for M365 models continues for older units, but newer models produced in 2024-2025 may never have viable modification methods. This represents a fundamental shift in the industry away from hackable, modifiable hardware toward locked, proprietary firmware.


Conclusion


Removing the speed limiter on Xiaomi electric scooters was technically achievable through custom firmware flashing or region changes, with the process becoming increasingly refined through community-developed tools like m365 DownG, XiaoFlasher, and online firmware generators. For pre-2024 models (M365, M365 Pro, early Pro 2 units), these methods could unlock speeds of 18-21 mph (30-34 km/h) depending on your model, representing a modest but noticeable increase over the stock 15.5 mph (25 km/h) limitation.


However, this capability has been significantly diminished in 2024-2025. Newer scooters with firmware v2.4.8+ and recent production models increasingly resist modification due to cryptographic protections and hardware security measures. The Xiaomi 4 series and late-2024 Pro 2 units are effectively not modifiable with current available tools. This trend reflects an intentional industry shift toward non-modifiable devices.


For those with older pre-2023 scooters, it's crucial to approach speed modifications with full awareness of the significant consequences. Warranty voidance is immediate and permanent, legal violations can result in fines and confiscation in many jurisdictions, safety risks increase substantially—particularly regarding braking effectiveness and crash severity, and insurance and liability concerns make you personally responsible for accidents involving modified vehicles. The Xiaomi M365 series was meticulously engineered for safe, reliable operation at 15.5 mph, and exceeding these specifications compromises the careful balance of motor capacity, battery management, braking performance, and structural integrity.


If you choose to proceed with modifications on compatible older models despite these risks, start conservatively with modest speed increases (27-28 km/h rather than maximum values), maintain or increase brake strength settings, perform thorough testing in controlled environments before riding in traffic, maintain your scooter meticulously with attention to brakes, tires, and motor condition, respect local laws and reduce speed in crowded areas, and consider purchasing comprehensive personal liability insurance. Before attempting modification, verify your specific model's compatibility by checking community forums like ScooterHacking.org, as 2024-2025 production units frequently fail modification attempts.


Ultimately, the safest and most practical approach for riders seeking higher speeds is investing in a scooter engineered from the ground up for performance riding, with appropriate braking systems, motor capacity, frame strength, and legal compliance at higher speed ranges. The information in this guide empowers you to make an informed decision about modification, but the responsibility for any consequences—technical, legal, financial, or physical—rests entirely with you. The era of easily modifiable mass-market electric scooters is rapidly ending as manufacturers implement stronger protections. Ride safely, ride legally, and respect the engineering limitations that keep you and others secure.


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