Electric Scooters Facing Transportation Restrictions in Germany
A Safety Measure at the Heart of Concerns
In response to growing safety concerns related to urban mobility devices, German authorities have decided to take preventive measures.
Starting March 1, 2024, the use of electric scooters will be restricted on public transportation in two major cities, Düsseldorf and Duisburg.
According to the Rheinbahn and DVG transportation services, this ban is a response to an urgent need to ensure the safety of passengers.
The Alert Triggered by International Incidents
Decision-makers have been alarmed by several incidents of fire linked to the lithium-ion batteries of these devices, mainly occurring outside of Germany.
These events have raised global concerns, leading to the exclusion of electric scooters from Renfe trains in Spain as of December 2023.
Such a decision has been made in other European cities previously, such as London and Hamburg.
Even though Germany has not yet experienced such incidents, it chooses to take precautions against potential risks.
Batteries Under Close Surveillance
The batteries of electric vehicles are at the center of safety concerns.
While banning electric scooters, public transportation in Düsseldorf and Duisburg continue to allow other, safer battery-powered devices, such as electric bicycles or wheelchairs.
The difference is based on the higher probability of fire caused by scooter batteries.
A Framework to be Redefined for the Sale and Use of Scooters
Although this ban is not considered permanent, it highlights the need for stricter guidelines for electric scooter manufacturers and importers.
The authorities remain open to the possibility of lifting the ban if improvements in battery safety are observed among manufacturers.
The current market situation, marked by easy online purchasing and sometimes insufficient import controls, reinforces the need for additional regulations to ensure user safety.
A Measure That Fits into a Broader Context
The case of electric scooters is not isolated when it comes to regulating lithium-ion batteries.
The United States has banned their transportation in airplane cargo holds since 2019, and the IATA imposes restrictions on batteries over 100 Wh in cabins since 2016.
These regulations follow several notable incidents, particularly with Samsung Galaxy Note 7 tablets.
Such measures prove the importance of safety in using lithium-ion battery devices, regardless of their size or function.
