Mayor Eric Adams Launches NYC Safe Charging Accelerator to Combat Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
New York City Mayor Eric Adams today unveiled the New York City Safe Charging Accelerator, an initiative to promote safe e-bike usage and charging, aimed at preventing lithium-ion battery fires. This accelerator involves multiple steps, including the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) proposing a rule to fast-track the approval process for property owners to install e-bike battery swapping and charging cabinets on public sidewalks. This move will remove barriers to installation and enhance accessibility for e-bike users.
Additionally, DOT will introduce the nation’s first municipal trade-in pilot program for unsafe e-bikes and other powered mobility devices, enabling eligible food delivery workers to exchange their hazardous devices for certified, high-quality e-bikes and batteries. Furthermore, the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) will initiate a $1 million public education and awareness campaign about the dangers of unsafe lithium-ion batteries, emphasizing that 59 percent of 2023’s lithium-ion battery fires occurred when the batteries were not charging.
These measures build upon Mayor Adams’ “Charge Safe, Ride Safe: New York City’s Electric Micromobility Action Plan,” aimed at promoting public safety as e-bike usage surges.
“E-bikes are a convenient, low-cost transportation option that reduce congestion and emissions, vital for tens of thousands of delivery workers,” said Mayor Adams. “However, too often, these bikes are powered by unsafe, uncertified batteries that can combust at any moment. We are committed to stopping these deadly fires and making safe lithium-ion batteries more affordable. We’re cutting red tape for property owners to install charging stations outside their buildings, launching the first municipal trade-in program for delivery workers, and educating New Yorkers on the dangers of uncertified batteries. When New Yorkers face danger, this administration takes decisive action, and that’s what we’re doing to address lithium-ion battery fires.”
“The Adams administration understands the importance of e-micromobility for many New Yorkers and is ensuring residents have access to new technology and guidance for safely charging and storing their lithium-ion batteries,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack.
The initiative aims to provide safe charging and storage equipment on streets where on-demand delivery workers need it, ensure widespread and accessible e-bike safety education, and offer delivery workers the opportunity to exchange dangerous bikes and batteries for safe ones.
The DOT’s proposed rule will allow property owners and commercial tenants, with property owner consent, to apply for permits to install battery swapping and charging cabinets on sidewalks. Each cabinet must meet specific requirements and receive FDNY and DOB review and approval. The FDNY will hire additional staff to expedite safety inspections and approvals, with decisions expected within six weeks.
The trade-in program, focusing on unsafe e-bikes and batteries, will provide selected participants with UL-certified e-bikes and two compatible batteries in exchange for their unsafe devices. The program targets food delivery workers, requiring participants to be New York City residents, at least 18 years old, own an eligible device, and have earned at least $1,500 over the prior year as a food delivery worker. Trade-ins will start in 2025, using $2 million in funding.
FDNY’s $1 million education campaign will raise awareness about the dangers of uncertified lithium-ion batteries, featuring ads in multiple languages and targeting areas with high incidences of battery fires. The campaign will promote proper battery usage and include QR codes linking to fire safety tips.
The Adams administration has actively worked to prevent lithium-ion battery fires, releasing the “Charge Safe, Ride Safe: New York City’s Electric Micromobility Action Plan” in March 2023. This plan promotes safe battery use, educates micromobility users, advocates for federal regulation, and expands enforcement against high-risk situations.
In addition, the administration has collaborated with delivery app companies and hosted events to promote safe e-mobility. FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh has advocated for legislative changes to enhance battery safety, resulting in the passage of H.R. 1797 by the U.S. House of Representatives, which mandates safety standards for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
The Lithium-Ion Battery Task Force has conducted numerous inspections, issuing over 1,000 violations and multiple criminal summonses. FDNY continues to provide fire safety education and tips for safe lithium-ion battery use.
New York City officials and advocates expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of safe e-bike usage and the reduction of fire hazards posed by lithium-ion batteries. The Safe Charging Accelerator represents a significant step in making New York City safer and more sustainable.
Kristina Grant is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.
Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
