PRESS INQUIRIES
New York City Council
Committee on Consumer and Worker Protection
Lithium-Ion Battery-Powered Vehicles
Thank you, Chair Velázquez and members of the committee, for the opportunity to testify on bills related to the safety of lithium-ion battery-powered vehicles. The Partnership for New York City represents private sector employers of more than one million New Yorkers. We work together with government, labor, and the nonprofit sector to maintain the city’s position as the preeminent global center of commerce, innovation, and economic opportunity.
The Partnership supports measures to increase the safety of vehicles powered by lithium-ion batteries including electric bicycles (e-bikes) and electric scooters (e-scooters). After gaining permission from the state, in 2020 the city legalized three types of e-bikes and e-scooters, all of which commonly use lithium-ion batteries. These vehicles have potential to alleviate traffic congestion, improve the environment, and increase the mobility of those who live far from public transportation. The also are a critical transportation mode for delivery workers.
Unfortunately, the rapid increase in e-bikes and e-scooters has overwhelmed many areas of the city with fast moving vehicles that often ignore the safety of pedestrians and cyclists using non-electric bicycles. In 2022, 239 pedestrians were injured in crashes involving e-bikes and e-scooters, a 30% increase from 2021; e-bike riders made up 70% of the 26 cyclists who have died so far in 2023.
Fires caused by the lithium-ion batteries that power these vehicles have dramatically increase and have become a leading cause of fatal fires in the city. So far in 2023, there have been 216 battery-related fires that have caused 120 injuries and 14 fatalities.
The Council has taken significant legislative steps to address the causes of lithium-ion battery fires including placing restrictions on the sale of e-bikes, e-scooters, and batteries as well as creating education programs on battery safety. The Partnership supports legislative efforts to improve safety, as well as more aggressive enforcement of existing laws. We are particularly supportive of Int. 1220, sponsored by Council Member Brewer, which would create a license for businesses that sell, rent, or maintain e-bikes and e-scooters, ensuring that these businesses maintain insurance and comply with relevant city laws.
Thank you.