Helmet - Which regulations apply?

Switzerland

Riders of a so-called fast e-bike (maximum design speed of up to 30 km/h and any pedal assistance up to a maximum of 45 km/h; Art. 18 let. a no. 2 VTS) must wear an approved bicycle helmet in accordance with the EN 1078 standard (Art. 3b para. 3 VRV).

Germany 

The legal basis (§ 21a para. 2 StVO). Since S-pedelecs (up to 45 km/h pedal assist) are legally classified in Germany not as bicycles, but as light motorbikes, the helmet requirement anchored there applies:

„Anyone operating or riding on a motorcycle or an open three or more wheeled motor vehicle with a design-related maximum speed exceeding 20 km/h must wear a „suitable“ protective helmet while riding.“

The problem: The German legislator does not define exactly in the text of the law what is meant by the term „suitable“.

Strict interpretation (ECE-R 22): Strictly speaking, motorcycle helmet standards (currently ECE-R 22.05 or ECE-R 22.06) apply to light motorcycles (such as scooters or mopeds). Such helmets are heavy, have hardly any ventilation slots, and are completely unsuitable for the physical exertion (active pedaling) on an S-Pedelec, as the rider sweats excessively underneath.

The practice and the NTA 8776 standard: Since the legislator leaves the term „suitable“ open, the specifically Dutch S-Pedelec standard NTA 8776 has established itself as a European and German industry standard. These helmets look like bicycle helmets but are tested for impact speeds up to 45 km/h, absorb falls significantly better, and protect the temples and the back of the head more deeply.

Netherlands

Here applies the NTA (NTA = NThe Netherlands Technical A(Speech) A helmet that meets the NTA 8776 helmet standard for speed pedelecs, introduced on January 1, 2017, or an ECE 22.05 motorcycle helmet. The test criteria of the NTA 8776 helmet standard are adapted to the higher speeds of electric bikes and are approximately 20 percent higher than those of the conventional EN 1078 standard. 

Belgium

In Belgium, NTA 8776 is not mandatory. A motor helmet is recommended.

Overview:
If you want to pursue your passion for riding an e-bike abroad, you must be aware that different regulations often apply there. There are differences, especially when it comes to mandatory helmets or equipment (e.g. lighting, rear-view mirrors).

A rough overview can be found at e-bike-tours.com.

Stormer „Smart Helmets“

AURA: UNIT 1 explicitly states NTA 8776 certification for the AURA for speeds up to 45 km/h, in addition to EN 1078 and CPSC. It also complies with standards CPSC, EN 1078, and AS/NZS 1698:2006.

FARO 
There is no confirmed certification for the FARO according to NTA 8776. It meets the classic bicycle helmet standards. CE EN 1078 (Europe) and CPSC (USA).Source)

CH: For S-Pedelecs, a helmet according to the normal bicycle standard EN 1078 is legally sufficient. This means that in Switzerland, you can legally ride both the FARO and the AURA on a Stromer bike. The AURA simply offers a better safety standard optimized for 45 km/h.

Netherlands: The NTA 8776 standard is enshrined in law. On an S-Pedelec, a helmet without this seal is illegal. Here Only UNIT 1 AURA allowed.

Germany and other EU countries: The legal situation in countries like Germany is a gray area for S-Pedelecs, as the legislator requires a „suitable helmet“ (often interpreted as a motorcycle helmet according to ECE-R 22).
helm after the NTA 8776 Standard (like the AURA) but are widely used by the police and authorities in practice as suitable S-Pedelec helmets Accepted and tolerated. The normal FARO (only EN 1078) is not legally recommended for fast e-bikes in Germany.

See also here in the FAQ: 'Laws and regulations for S-Pedelecs'