motorisé

Motorisé is an adjective in French that designates something equipped with a motor or powered by a motor, as opposed to being manual, human-powered, or non-powered. In common usage, it describes devices or systems that derive motion or operation from an internal combustion engine or an electric motor. The term can also function as a noun in certain contexts, notably in phrases like “véhicule motorisé.”

Etymology and related terms: The word comes from moteur (engine or motor) with the suffix -isé, yielding the sense “furnished with a motor.” Related concepts include non motorisé (not motorized) and motorisation (the act, process, or degree of providing a motor to something, or the level of motor power in a system).

Usage and scope: The notion spans transportation, industry, and consumer electronics. In transport, it covers automobiles, motorcycles, scooters, mopeds, motorized bicycles, boats with engines, and aircraft. In consumer products, many tools and devices are described as motorisés, such as a tondeuse motorisée (powered lawn mower), aspirateur motorisé (motorized vacuum cleaner), or tronçonneuse motorisée (motorized chainsaw). The emphasis is on the presence and role of a motor rather than manual propulsion.

Regulation and context: Motorisation levels influence regulatory requirements, including vehicle registration, licensing, and insurance, as well as emissions and safety standards. In urban planning and mobility debates, motorisation is weighed against non-motorized transport options like walking and cycling to address environmental impact, energy use, and public health.