The New York City Council recently passed a lithium-ion battery safety package that has the potential to greatly increase the safety of electric bikes in the city. The legislation requires that e-bikes meet UL 2849, and that their batteries meet UL 2271 standards. As a manufacturer of e-bikes, ENVO Drive Systems welcomes this legislation and hopes to see it adopted across North America to ensure the safety of our customers.
Lithium-ion batteries have become ubiquitous in modern life, powering everything from smartphones to electric cars. However, they can be dangerous if not handled properly. In rare cases, they can catch fire or explode, causing serious injuries or even death.
While the vast majority of lithium-ion batteries are safe, the potential for danger is always present. This is particularly true for e-bikes, which use large batteries that can generate a lot of heat and energy. If these batteries are damaged or improperly designed, they can pose a serious risk to riders.
In 2021, four people died and 79 were injured in 104 lithium-ion battery fueled blazes in homes, and those numbers took a concerning climb in 2022, with six people killed and 142 hurt in 220 battery-related fires. With these statistics it is no wonder City Council took the decision to regulate the e bikes and the lithium ion batteries they come with.
The New York City Council's decision to require e-bikes to meet these safety standards is an important step forward for the industry. It will help to ensure that riders in New York City are using bikes that meet the highest safety standards, and it sets an example for other cities across North America.
At ENVO Drive Systems, we are proud to have been one of the first companies in North America to obtain UL 2849 certification for our e-bikes. This certification is a testament to our commitment to safety and quality, and we are currently in the process of obtaining certification for all of our other models.
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