Summary
A German standard for battery safety
The German standard VDMA 24994 could soon become a European standard to improve battery storage safety, especially for electric-assisted bicycles.
Objectives of the VDMA 24994 standard
In Germany, the DIN has developed the VDMA 24994 standard for the storage of electric bike batteries. This standard imposes rigorous tests ensuring that the fire risk of lithium-ion batteries is almost zero. The requirements are stricter than those in force in Europe, implemented following publicized fires, particularly in the UK and the US.
Characteristics of storage cabinets
According to this standard, storage cabinets must contain flames and prevent the release of harmful gases, even in the event of a fire inside. The temperature outside the cabinet must not exceed 150°C to prevent any risk of fire from objects placed on it. Only under these conditions do they receive the required certificate.
European level transposition
CENELEC is currently examining in Brussels the possibility of transposing the VDMA 24994 standard at the European level, at the request of the German institute. A verdict is expected shortly, but its implementation could take time. Member states will need time for application and the availability of certified cabinets is still low.
Insurer pressure
The pressure from insurers could accelerate the adoption of this standard. They could require compliance for incident coverage, making its application almost inevitable. Manufacturers are already striving to meet these rules to quickly obtain certification and position themselves in the market.
Bart van de Broek notes the efforts of manufacturers to comply with the standard, anticipating a market self-regulation that would make the mandatory establishment of this standard unnecessary.
