Electric scooters and e-bikes are becoming increasingly popular, but they also come with risks. One of the biggest concerns is the risk of fire from lithium-ion batteries. But what causes these battery fires? How often do these fires occur?
The main causes of fires
1. Overheating
With intensive use or exposure to high temperatures, a lithium-ion battery can overheat, which can lead to a chemical reaction (thermal runaway) and ultimately fire or explosion.
2. Incorrect charging
Using incorrect chargers, damaged cables, or overcharging can damage a battery and pose a fire risk. Always ensure you use original chargers and charge batteries in a safe environment.
3. Mechanical damage
Electric scooters and e-bikes are exposed to shocks from uneven roads, falls, and collisions. These shocks can damage the internal structure of the battery, which may not always lead to fire immediately but could do so later.
4. Accidents
The number of accidents involving electric scooters is rising sharply, which naturally causes internal damage to the battery. Statistics show that between 2020 and 2022, the number of accidents involving shared scooters in Belgium quadrupled. These accidents can damage the battery, increasing the risk of fire.
Fires in numbers*
To get a better picture of the frequency of these fires, we look at statistics from our neighboring countries and major cities like New York City:
- The Netherlands: In 2023, a battery was identified as a suspected cause in about 6% of building fires. In one out of three of these fires, the fire was caused by the battery of an e-bike or e-scooter. This means that about 1 in 50 building fires is due to an electric bicycle or scooter.
- New York City: In 2022, there were 208 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries from light electric vehicles, resulting in 142 injuries and 6 deaths. Of these fires, 33 occurred while the battery was not being charged, highlighting that the risk is not only present during charging. In 2023, this number further increased to 253 fires, underscoring the need for better safety measures.
These figures are based on reported incidents. The actual number of fires is likely higher, as not all fires are officially recorded or reported. *It is important to emphasize that these figures only relate to batteries from bicycles and scooters. The total number of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries is much higher and occurs daily, for example, with smartphones, laptops, and other devices.
The increase in electric vehicles makes it necessary to take safe use and charging seriously. Ask about the appropriate solution for your batteries!
