By Lorie Lewis Ham
With more electric vehicles becoming available, the use of lithium-ion batteries is growing. According to an article on Energy.gov, lithium-ion batteries power the lives of millions of people each day. Not only in laptops and cell phones but also in hybrids and electric cars. They can also be used in scooters and electric bikes. This technology is growing in popularity due to its lightweight, high-energy density, and ability to recharge.
Much of the world’s transportation is gradually moving to modes of transportation that are powered by these batteries. A 2023 article on IEA.gov states that the demand for these batteries increased by about 65% in 2022, primarily due to the growth in electric passenger car sales, with new registrations increasing by 55% in 2022 compared to 2021. A Clemson University article states that from 2010 through 2022 shared e-bikes and e-scooters – those owned by rental companies – accounted for more than half a billion trips in U.S. cities. Privately owned e-bikes add to that total. In 2021, more than 880,000 e-bikes were sold in the U.S.
But are there any concerns about these batteries? According to a recent BBC article, lithium batteries are very difficult to recycle and require huge amounts of water and energy to produce. Emerging alternatives could be cheaper and greener. Another potential concern is fires. The same article on Clemson University’s website, also states that battery fires are a major concern in large cities where electric vehicles are popular. Fire departments in New York City and San Francisco report handling more than 660 fires involving lithium-ion batteries since 2019. In New York City, these fires caused 12 deaths and more than 260 injuries from 2021 through early 2023.
However, battery-powered vehicles account for a small share of car fires, according to an article on Vox, but controlling EV fires is difficult. Typically, an EV fire burns at roughly 5000 degrees Fahrenheit, while a gasoline-powered vehicle on fire burns at 1500 F. It takes about 2000 gallons of water to extinguish a burning gasoline-powered vehicle; putting out an EV fire can take 10 times more according to an article in the Boston Globe.
But just like all types of fires, there are things we can do to help prevent them. A 2024 Consumer Reports article shares several tips on helping prevent such fires with e-bikes and scooters, and the same advice applies to any device powered by a lithium-ion battery, whether it’s a scooter, skateboard, phone, tablet, or robotic vacuum cleaner. These tips are from the New York Fire Department and include (you can find the rest of the 12 recommendations in the original article):
- Buy an electric bike, or any other lithium-ion powered device, that is certified by a qualified testing organization such as Underwriters Laboratory.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storage.
- Always use the manufacturer’s cord and power adapter made specifically for the item.
- Do not leave the items unattended while they are charging, and don’t leave them charging overnight.
- If a battery overheats or you notice an odor, a change in shape or color, leaking, or odd noises, stop using it immediately.
If you are concerned about whether a fire caused by a lithium-ion battery, whether in your car, bike, or other device, is covered by your existing insurance, Mennonite Insurance Services is happy to answer any of your questions at (559) 638-2327. It is always best to be prepared!
