The NSW Government has introduced new safety standards for lithium-ion batteries used in e-micromobility devices, such as e-bikes, e-scooters, e-skateboards, and self-balancing scooters. These regulations, which take effect in February 2025, aim to enhance consumer safety by addressing the risks associated with these products, particularly the potential for fires.
What is changing?
E-bikes, e-scooters, e-skateboards, self-balancing scooters, and the lithium-ion batteries powering these devices are now classified as ‘declared electrical articles’ under the Gas and Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act 2017.
As a result, these products must meet the mandatory safety standards specified by the Act before they can be sold in New South Wales.
Starting February 2025, all e-micromobility devices, including e-bikes and e-scooters, sold in NSW must comply with these standards. These regulations aim to ensure the availability of safe and compliant products in the market, significantly reducing the risk of fire incidents.
What standards must my product comply with?
The products must comply with any one of the Standards listed for the product category below.
E-bikes
For e-bikes with a maximum continuous rated output not exceeding 500 watts:
- AS 15194:2016- Cycles – Electrically power assisted cycles – EPAC Bicycles (also known as pedelecs), or
- EN 15194:2017+A1:2023 – Cycles – Electrically power assisted cycles – EPAC Bicycles, or
- UL 2849 – Electrical systems for eBikes
For e-bikes with a maximum continuous rated output exceeding 500 watts:
- UL 2849 – Electrical systems for eBikes
E-bike batteries
- EN 50604-1:2016+A1:2021 – Secondary lithium batteries for light EV (electric vehicle) applications, or
- IEC 62133-2:2017 – Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes- Safety requirements for portable sealed secondary cells, and for batteries made from them, for use in portable applications- Part 2: Lithium systems, or
- UL 2271 – Batteries for use in light electric vehicle (LEV) applications
E-scooters, E-skateboards and Hoverboards
- AS/NZS 60335.2.114:2023 – Household and similar electrical appliances- Safety. Part 2.114: Particular requirements for personal e-transporters, or
- EN 17128 – Light motorised vehicles for the transportation of persons and goods and related facilities and not subject to type-approval for on-road use- Personal light electric vehicles (PLEC)- Requirements and test methods, or
- UL 2272 – Electrical systems for personal e-mobility devices
E-scooters, E-skateboards and Hoverboards Batteries
- AS/NZS 60335.2.114:2023 – Household and similar electrical appliances- Safety. Part 2.114: Particular requirements for personal e-transporters, or
- UL 2271 – Batteries for use in light electric vehicle (LEV) applications
Why Brisbane Test Lab?
We offer comprehensive product safety testing and compliance consulting services designed to meet the specific needs of our clients. With advanced facilities and technical expertise, we assist businesses in meeting essential regulatory requirements.
Reference:
NSW Government. (2024). New standards for lithium-ion batteries in e-micromobility devices. Retrieved from https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/safety-home/electrical-safety/lithium-ion-battery-safety/new-standards-for-lithium-ion-batteries-e-micromobility-devices.
New South Wales Government. (2017). Gas and Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act 2017. Retrieved from https://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au.
New South Wales Government. (1987). Fair Trading Act 1987. Retrieved from https://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/view/html/inforce/current/act-1987-068.
NSW Fair Trading. (2024). Approval of electrical articles and compliance. Retrieved from https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/safety-home/electrical-safety/lithium-ion-battery-safety.