New York City has banned dangerous bootleg lithium-ion batteries for e-bikes. The batteries have been linked to fires and explosions, and the ban is aimed at protecting riders and pedestrians. The ban applies to all e-bikes in the city, and violators will face fines of up to $500. The ban is part of a larger effort to improve safety on the city’s streets and reduce the number of accidents involving e-bikes.
Fires from faulty e-bike batteries are particularly dangerous, and we need stronger regulation to ensure these products are safe.
I visited Rescue 1 with @FDNY Commissioner Kavanagh to learn about them and how New Yorkers can take steps to protect themselves. pic.twitter.com/waZUmreCA7
— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) March 7, 2023
@NYCMayor signed several bills that will further regulate lithium-ion batteries sold in NYC — our latest push to prevent deadly fires caused by them, he said
The city saw 44 fires linked to lithium-ion batteries in 2020, fire officials said. The number grew to 220 in 2022
https://twitter.com/NYCMayorsOffice/status/1637900374492233731
What are Bootleg Lithium-Ion Batteries?
Bootleg lithium-ion batteries are uncertified batteries that are not safe for use. They are often cheaper than certified batteries, but they have questionable safety measures. Lithium-ion batteries power e-bikes and e-scooters that are especially popular among the city’s legion of delivery workers. Such batteries are overwhelming safe if certified1.
