An increase in fires and fatalities blamed on lithium-ion batteries used to power electronic bikes (e-bikes) has sparked a push for stricter regulation on the manufacture, sale, reconditioning, charging, and storage of these energy sources. In New York City, where the frequency of e-bike battery-related fires is highest, consumer advocates and fire departments are urging the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to establish national safety standards and confiscate non-compliant imports at the border.
On a June morning, an explosion triggered a fire in a New York City shop filled with motorized bikes and their volatile lithium-ion batteries, killing four people. As the popularity of e-bikes has surged, so has the occurrence of such fires and related deaths.
There have already been 100 such fires this year in New York City, resulting in 13 deaths, which is over double the six fatalities recorded last year. Moreover, more than 200 battery-related fires were reported to the commission from 39 states over the last two years, including 19 deaths attributed to micromobility devices that include battery-powered scooters, bikes, and hoverboards.
The Community Solidarity Project, a nonprofit organization co-founded by Michelle Manos, is working to support those affected by these safety concerns. The group aims to ensure that unsafe e-bikes and poorly manufactured batteries are removed from the streets and homes.
From the perspective of personal injury law, this situation involving e-bike battery fires highlights the importance of product safety and the potential liabilities manufacturers could face when their products cause harm. It also emphasizes the need for robust regulations and compliance checks to protect consumer safety.