Pandemic-driven demand and loose regulations opened the early market to scores of cheap machines propelled by cheap batteries. And small, powerful, lithium ion batteries, rushed to market to power this emerging revolution in transportation continue to pose a public health hazard. In urban centers like New York City and London, where people often charge their batteries in small apartments, lithium battery fires are emerging as a leading cause of fatal fires. The dangers of lithium batteries have been on the radar of fire officials for years and rigorous steps have been taken by regulators to make them safer in myriad consumer electronics and electric vehicles. Safety regulations for the manufacture of e-bike batteries, scant in the past, are ramping up and poised to change.

Source: CNN June 23, 2023 15:15 UTC