First things first - a massive thanks to FRISSBE summer interns Liliana Martinez and Rauan Adikey (from IMFSE) for their very significant contribution to this newsletter - you outdid yourselves!

In a previous Burning Matters post, "Ban e-mobility devices!", we delved into how these technologies have reshaped urban transportation, but also the considerable fire risks associated with their lithium-ion batteries. This week, we'll focus more on strategies for navigating the complex safety landscape surrounding these innovative, yet potentially hazardous devices, and especially on their prevalence in China where e-bikes are widely used.

E-mobility devices such as e-scooters and e-bikes have become a very popular mode of urban transport in China in recent years. They are convenient, produce less carbon emissions than many alternatives, and provide an efficient means of travel. However, it is important to keep in mind the fire risks associated with their lithium-ion batteries. According to a recent overview by Rob Sherman, these batteries can overheat and catch fire due to factors like improper charging, damage, or manufacturing defects. The prevalence of these devices, combined with the potential fire hazards, necessitates a closer examination of safety protocols and regulations to ensure the responsible use of e-mobility technologies in urban areas.

As mentioned, the popularity of electric bicycles in China is on the rise and the growth devices in use has been remarkable. With approximately 350 million in circulation by the end of 2022, this number accounts for one in every four people. Unfortunately, this rapid growth has come with a significant increase in fire incidents. In 2023 alone, Chinese authorities reported 21,000 electric bicycle-related fires, 17% more than the previous year. The situation is particularly concerning in Shanghai, where bicycle fires have increased by around a third, leading to seven deaths and 23 injuries. The tragic fire in Nanjing on February 23, caused by an electric bicycle battery, further highlighted the risks, resulting in 15 fatalities and 44 injuries. The blaze started on the ground floor of a 34-story building, where electric bicycles were parked, and quickly spread upwards, trapping residents and causing extensive damage. This incident underscores the severe consequences of such fires and the need for immediate action to improve safety standards.

Furthermore, several other incidents in December 2023 highlight the ongoing risks associated with electric bicycles. On December 28, a fire in a self-built house in Dongxindian Village, Chaoyang District, Beijing, resulted in four fatalities. Preliminary investigations indicated that an electric bicycle was the cause. Just a day earlier, on December 27, another fire broke out in a residential area in Putuo District, Shanghai, where an electric bicycle burned fiercely in a corridor, trapping residents in thick smoke. Thankfully, firefighters rescued everyone in time, and no casualties were reported. The fire was attributed to a battery failure in the electric bicycle.

Earlier in the month, on December 13, a fire in Huidong County, Huizhou City, Guangdong Province, caused by an electric bicycle charging indoors, led to two deaths when the battery experienced thermal runaway and ignited nearby combustibles. These events further demonstrate the severe fire risks posed by electric bicycles.

Additionally, a fire in an underground garage on Wuning Road in Shanghai's Putuo District highlighted the danger of e-bike fires. The fire, which was sparked by an electric bicycle, quickly spread smoke throughout a residential building. Fortunately, residents were able to find safety on a second-floor extension platform, and no injuries were reported. This incident demonstrates the rapid spread and severe impact of fires in enclosed spaces, emphasizing the need for better safety practices and infrastructure.  

Another notable incident occurred in 2023 in Shanghai's Minhang District. A courier caused a fire by using a "flying wire" to charge his bike battery from his apartment, bypassing safety regulations. The fire resulted in significant property damage, and the individual was handed a two-year suspended prison sentence by a local court. This case highlights the dangers of unsafe charging practices and the importance of adhering to safety regulations to prevent such occurrences.

China, with its large market for e-mobility devices, is one of the forerunners in addressing fire risks. There were some recent regulatory actions on this:

1.    Enhanced Safety Standards: China is developing strict safety regulations for e-mobility devices that focus on ensuring robust manufacturing practices and safe usage guidelines. For example, the proposed national standard for lithium-ion battery safety aims to fill existing regulatory gaps.

2.    Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the society about safe charging practices and the dangers of modifications can significantly reduce risks. Public safety announcements and community programs play a significant role here.

3.    Increased Inspections and Penalties: Regular inspections of charging stations and penalties for non-compliance with safety regulations prevent unsafe practices. For instance, in Shanghai's Dongyuanfang community in downtown Huangpu District, nightly inspections revealed that electric bicycles were being charged in hallways, blocking fire exit passages and presenting significant safety hazards. In the case of the bike battery fire caused by a flying wire as mentioned above, a courier in Shanghai's Minhang District was responsible. As a result, a local court handed him a two-year suspended prison sentence. This illustrates a legal penalty imposed for violating regulations related to charging electric bicycles.

As regulations tighten, technological innovations are also emerging to enhance the safety of e-mobility devices in China, for example:

Smart Batteries: Advanced battery management systems can monitor battery health in real-time, detecting anomalies and preventing potential failures before they escalate.

Fire-Resistant Materials: Developing and using fire-resistant materials for battery casings can help contain fires if they occur, preventing them from spreading.

Automated Safety Systems: Incorporating automated fire suppression systems in charging stations and within the devices themselves can provide an immediate response to potential fire incidents.

Community and infrastructure solutions are important on top of the individual safety practices and regulatory measures, for mitigating fire risks in cities in China:

Dedicated Charging Stations: Investing in well-designed, accessible charging stations with built-in safety features can discourage unsafe home charging practices. These stations should be strategically placed to meet demand and ensure convenience. For example, there are yellow charging boxes in Chengdu for e-bikes that provide an essential infrastructure for the city's large number of electric bicycles and scooters.

Battery Exchange Programs: Implementing battery exchange programs can reduce the need for users to charge batteries at home. These programs allow users to swap depleted batteries for fully charged ones, ensuring that batteries are maintained and charged under safe conditions.

Community Vigilance: Encouraging community vigilance and reporting of unsafe practices can help identify and mitigate risks early. Collaborative efforts between residents and authorities, such as advocating for dedicated e-bike lanes, can enhance safety and reduce pollution.

Here is a list of recommendations for preventing electric bicycle fires. Please remember these safety tips:

Control Charging Time: Do not overcharge electric bicycles. Based on the battery capacity, charging should be completed within 8-10 hours.

Do Not Charge Indoors: Indoor environments often contain more flammable materials, making it easier to start a fire.

Avoid Using Frayed Wires: Frayed, aged, or weathered wires can easily cause fires.

Prohibit Charging in Hallways: Do not park electric bicycles in hallways, as a fire in the hallway can directly block escape routes and firefighting access.

Charge Away from Flammable Materials: Charge electric bicycles away from flammable materials to prevent the fire from spreading and causing a larger disaster.

Do not modify or repair the electric bicycle by yourself: Modifying or repairing electric bicycles, such as adding sound systems or lighting, can easily lead to circuit overload and cause fires.

Do not use non-standard products: Always choose certified electric bicycles and parts. Using non-standard products increases the risk of fire.

Prevent water from entering the electric bicycle: If water enters the interior of an electric bicycle, it may cause a short circuit, leading to potential fire hazards.

Shanghai has been at the forefront of addressing the safety challenges posed by the growing use of e-mobility devices. Since May 2021, the city has enforced regulations to enhance safety, such as banning the charging of electric bikes in building common areas and emergency evacuation pathways. While these measures have been a step in the right direction, enforcement remains a persistent challenge due to the high demand for charging facilities and the significant cost differences between home and public charging options.

To further improve safety, Shanghai has also introduced innovative smart battery exchange stations and charging cabinets. These systems feature high-temperature alarms and automatic fire extinguishing mechanisms, providing a safer alternative for charging e-mobility devices. These technological advancements have been well-received by delivery riders and other frequent users of e-mobility solutions, as they offer a more secure and reliable charging infrastructure.

The issue of electric bike fires isn't just a problem in China. Data from Bike Radar shows that incidents involving e-bikes and requiring intervention by the London Fire Brigade soared by 60% in the first half of 2023, compared to the same period in 2022.

Ensuring the safety of e-mobility devices in Chinese cities requires a comprehensive approach. Collaboration between manufacturers, regulators, and the public is crucial. By embracing technological innovations, enforcing robust safety standards, and fostering community engagement, we can enjoy the benefits of e-mobility without compromising safety.

As we continue to explore this dynamic and evolving topic, we invite our readers to share their thoughts and experiences. Have you encountered any safety issues with e-mobility devices? What solutions do you think would make a difference in addressing these challenges? Regulators, manufacturers, and the public must work together to develop and implement effective safety measures that prioritize the well-being of users and the community. Only through this collaborative effort can we work towards a safer, more sustainable urban future where the advantages of e-mobility are realized to their fullest potential.

Finally, there are often significant socioeconomic challenges associated with the (fatal) e-mobility fires, but that will have to be expanded on in another post.

Stay safe,

Grunde

I would love to hear your thoughts! Reach out through the Burning Matters feedback form.

Original LinkedIn Posts: