Dear Green Moto Community,
We trust you've had a fantastic start to 2024 and are thoroughly enjoying your electric biking adventures.
As many of you are aware, on New Year's Eve, an ordinary commute took a terrifying turn when a faulty lithium-ion battery, powering an e-bike, sparked a blaze inside a Toronto subway train. The chaos and intensity of the incident serve as a stark reminder that the power within our beloved e-bikes demands not just thrill-seeking but also a profound respect for safety.
Recent events may understandably raise concerns, and we want to assure you that your safety is our utmost priority. This serves as a crucial moment to highlight the significance of responsible lithium-ion battery usage, ensuring your well-being and the safety of those around you during your e-biking adventures.
Understanding the Risks: Lithium-ion batteries, widely used in electric vehicles, including e-bikes, are known for their high energy density and efficiency. However, recent incidents underscore the potential risks associated with improper use or faulty batteries, particularly the risk of fire.
Safety Tips for Lithium-Ion Batteries: To have the safe usage of lithium-ion batteries, we strongly recommend adhering to the following precautions:
Purchase Quality Batteries: Only buy lithium-ion batteries from reputable and certified manufacturers. Choosing high-quality batteries significantly reduces the risk of malfunctions. Avoid purchasing lithium batteries online from unknown sources, especially those offering unrealistically low prices.
Regular Inspection: Routinely inspect your battery for visible damage, such as dents, punctures, or swelling. If any issues are observed, cease use immediately and contact our service team promptly.
Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Adhere strictly to the manufacturer's instructions regarding charging, discharging, and storage. Overcharging or exceeding the recommended voltage can lead to battery failure, fire, and potential injury.
Avoid Modifications: Do not attempt to modify the battery or its charger. Any alterations may compromise safety mechanisms designed to prevent malfunction and accidents.
Strictly Use Approved Parts: Utilize only approved and certified chargers and accessories provided by the battery manufacturer. If you need to replace your lithium battery charger, ensure it has the proper voltage and amperage for your battery. Consult the original vendor of your bike for guidance to prevent unforeseen problems, injuries, or property loss.
Safe Charging Practices: Charge your e-bike in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials. Never leave the battery unattended while charging. Crucially, avoid charging your battery inside an apartment. Find a dedicated, open space for charging to minimize risks.
Dispose of Old Batteries Properly: When it's time to replace your battery, follow proper disposal procedures. Many local public recycling facilities accept lithium-ion batteries for safe and environmentally friendly disposal.
In case you notice any of the following signs, it's crucial to take immediate action to avoid injury or property damage:
· Any odor emanating from the battery
· Change in color
· Excessive heat
· Change in shape of the battery, especially swelling
· Leaking of any substance or chemical from the battery
· Unusual noises emanating from the battery, especially while being charged
If you observe any of these signs, please stop charging and using the lithium-ion battery immediately and contact us promptly.
Moreover, if you notice the battery is sparking or smoking, it's a serious situation. In this case:
· If it's safe to do so, move the battery or device outside and away from anything that could catch fire.
· Stay away from the battery.
· Alert and help other people stay away from the dangerous area around the battery.
· Call 911 immediately.
Our commitment at Green Moto is not only to provide exceptional e-bikes but also to foster a community focused on safety and responsible use. If you have any concerns or questions regarding your e-bike's lithium-ion battery, our knowledgeable team is here to assist you. Your safety and satisfaction are our utmost priorities.
Ride safely, stay informed, and let's make sure our e-bike journeys are enjoyable and worry-free.
Best Regards,
Green Moto Team
PS: To learn more about lithium battery incidents, please check the following links. We strongly recommend that you read all the articles about lithium.
https://nationalpost.com/pmn/news-pmn/canada-news-pmn/toronto-fire-chief-warns-of-lithium-ion-batteries-risks-after-e-bike-fire-on-subway
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-e-bike-battery-fire-1.7072547
htthttps://www.toronto.ca/community-people/public-safety-alerts/safety-tips-prevention/home-high-rise-school-workplace-safety/lithium-ion-batteries/ps://nationalpost.com/news/why-do-ev-and-e-bike-batteries-keep-catching-on-fire