New York City has implemented a law to prevent the sale, lease or rental of electric bicycles that do not meet safety standards. This law aims to address the issue of lithium-ion battery fires, which have been a problem in the city. However, this is just one measure within a broader solution.
The City Council has also implemented battery storage and certification requirements, as well as a battery exchange program. These measures are aggressive, but a comprehensive approach that includes raising awareness of the problem is necessary.
Despite the new law, there are still thousands of potentially non-compliant e-bikes and scooters in homes and businesses across the city. The battery swapping program will take time to fully implement, leaving room for more fires to occur in the interim.
A recent survey by UL Standards & Engagement revealed that many e-bike owners have little knowledge about the devices they own. Only 25% of respondents reported checking whether the products they purchase meet lithium-ion battery standards. Additionally, 43% of e-bike owners were unaware that their devices were powered by lithium-ion batteries. This lack of awareness can have deadly consequences.
A crucial aspect of addressing the issue is for businesses and cyclists to take meaningful action in response to the legislation. For example, GrubHub has already announced that it is investing in safer e-bikes and collaborating with the city to expand these efforts.
It is also vital to educate e-bike owners. There are several misconceptions that must be corrected to ensure the safety of New Yorkers and others. First, e-bike fires are not limited to New York City; Incidents have been reported around the world. Second, it’s not just electric bikes that pose a risk, but also the lithium-ion batteries that power these devices. Any device powered by lithium-ion batteries, such as garden tools or power tools, can be a potential fire hazard if the batteries are damaged or counterfeit. Lastly, lithium-ion battery fires are extremely dangerous and difficult to extinguish.
New York City has taken a step in the right direction by implementing standards for electric bikes and lithium-ion batteries. This is expected to reduce the number of fires in the city. Other cities are encouraged to follow suit. Additionally, it is crucial that all Americans be aware of the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and handle them safely.
Fuentes: UL Standards & Engagement
Continue Reading
2023-09-28 06:07:33
#York #City #seeks #improve #ebike #safety