Technology has revolutionised the transport industry over the last ten years. With the increasing awareness of the degradation of the environment and the rising fuel prices, electric vehicles are in demand now more than ever. However, there is always one fear constantly in the back of the consumer’s mind – unexpected fire.
Is the Electric Scooter Safe?
People have heard several stories about electric scooters bursting into flames and causing severe injury, but such incidents are very rare. You must purchase your electric scooter from a reputable brand and not fall for cheaper offers that don’t conduct mandatory performance tests and bypass security codes. It is essential to conduct a thorough investigation before buying an electric scooter and obtain evidence of the design and development procedure of the e-scooter.
There is risk everywhere – while traveling on a plane, riding on a bicycle, and even cooking when you have a gas cylinder that can cause much damage if there is no proper care. Similarly, for e-scooters, the risk exists, but if you take reasonable precautions, you’re sure to be safe.
Causes of Battery Fires
Let’s look at the most common triggers that can cause an e-scooter to catch fire.
1. Battery failure
One of the leading causes of an e-scooter fire is battery failure due to poor design, manufacturing defects, and physical abuse that causes thermal, electrical, and mechanical damage.
2. Overload
Lithium-ion batteries have a minimum and maximum capability of handling pressure. Use these scooters only till the optimum level as overloading these machines can result in fires. High-quality batteries have internal controls which can stop working if the machine is overloaded.
3. Incorrect charging
If you use a different brand/specification charger with your e-scooter, or if you overcharge the scooter, it can result in poor cell performance and cause the cell voltage to shoot up and be out of the hands of the controller. Overcharging can cause short circuits, thus increasing the likelihood of a fire.
4. Poor design and construction
It is always recommended to purchase your e-scooters from renowned brands. If the machine is not professionally or mechanically constructed or has a faulty design, the risk of it catching fire or breaking down certainly increases. Go for a product that also offers you a genuine warranty.
5. High/Low temperature
If the battery is not correctly ventilated, it can self-heat and cause the material near the battery to catch fire. Thermal instability and high temperatures cause internal deterioration and exothermic reactions that lead to battery problems. As soon as the temperature reaches a specific level, it causes a reaction between the cathode and the electrolyte. This results in more thermal energy production, which can form a combustible gas that swells the battery and ignites. It is crucial to perform proper testing and take care of necessary preventive measures.
- Physical damages
If there is any damage done to the lithium-ion batteries or if these are violently misused, a simple hit or shock may damage the battery and result in fire. A puncture or mechanical damage can lead to a short circuit. So, if you see any kind of physical damage to the battery, you must get it replaced immediately.
Prevention of e-Scooter Fires
To prevent lithium-ion battery failures, you must store your e-scooter in a safe and shaded area. You must equip these batteries with smoke and fire alarms and fire extinguishers. Here are a few safety tips that can help you prevent electric scooter fires :
1. Always buy your battery from a reputed brand
Good bands conduct appropriate testing and follow the mandatory safety standards. To receive the highest quality product, you must procure all components and even the replacement chargers from the same manufacturer. If the machine causes a fire, you can claim free replacement in the case of a recalled scooter.
2. Avoid overcharging the scooter
- You must always use the charger that you receive with the product. Don’t buy duplicates or don’t use another brand charger.
- You must never leave the electric scooter charging at home the whole night as we do with our smartphones. It is a high-end machine and may cause issues.
- Finally, you must time the charging of the electric scooter and never leave it unattended.
3. Service and replace the battery and electrical system regularly
You must have an expert inspect, service, or replace the battery and electrical system of the e-scooter regularly.
4. Check the lithium-ion battery life in the scooter
Do not use batteries that have been punctured, crushed, dropped, or damaged. The battery’s appearance may look good, but if one of the cells wears out, a short circuit can happen, and a fire may occur.
5. Do not overuse the machine or apply excessive pressure to the scooter
E-scooters are intended for convenience, and a few of them for off-road use, but not for rough or regular long-term brash usage. It may destroy internal components and cause a fire.
iVOOMi Safety Tips :
- Charge the battery using only the iVOOMi charger.
- Avoid extended exposure to the sun.
- Operate the scooter between 30% and 90% of the battery capacity.
- Read the instruction manual, know everything about the e-scooter’s battery life, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Do not leave the electric scooter charged overnight.
- Do not splash water on the battery.
- Do not use an 84V charger for a 60V battery.
- Store the battery at room temperature and not in direct sunlight.
As quoted by the Founder of iVOOMi Energy, MD, Mr. Sunil Bansal
“The recent unfortunate incidents are serious issues. Although we feel sorry for these incidents, we believe that the responsible thing for us as OEMs and manufacturers is to try to understand the various factors and reasons why they might have occurred. In the day and age of viral internet media spread, misunderstandings can negatively affect the future of EVs and the precious Green Revolution, which is beneficial for the nation.
We at iVOOMi Energy believe that the safety of an EV battery is paramount. Thermal management and battery construction play a huge role in battery stability and safety, ensuring the safety of our scooters and, more importantly, the safety of our consumers. Our self-manufactured second-generation batteries have been rigorously tested, and the developed technology ensures these factors. Product safety and reliability are our primary concerns. They cannot be ignored, which is why we as a company have never promoted our products unless they are thoroughly tested, safe to use, and can be serviced and accessed easily.” – Sunil Bansal Founder, MD. iVOOMi Energy.
Conclusion
Electric scooters are safe, provided you follow all the necessary precautions. iVOOMi, the electric scooter manufacturer in Pune, strictly complies with safety regulations. Buy your e-scooter today from iVOOMi, avoid overcharging the battery, store your bike at the optimal temperature, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for service and maintenance for maximum safety.
