Federal lawmakers in the U.S. are moving forward with new regulations to ensure the safety of lithium ion batteries in EVs and other electric mobility devices like e-bikes and scooters, following growing concerns over fire hazards.
The issue gained prominence after a recent incident in South Korea, where an electric Mercedes-Benz caught fire, prompting the South Korean government to consider stricter EV battery policies. In response to similar safety concerns, U.S. lawmakers are working on companion bills focused on regulating lithium ion batteries.
In May 2024, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act (H.R. 1939), requiring the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to establish new standards for lithium ion batteries and related equipment, including chargers, cables and external packs.
The Senate Commerce Committee followed suit on Aug. 1, approving one of the companion bills that would mandate the CPSC to implement these new safety standards to reduce the risk of fires, explosions and other hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries. The standards would address various aspects of battery design, manufacturing and testing to ensure greater consumer safety.
"We have seen fires, deaths and injuries all across the country. Ultimately, it's really important to get federal legislation to ensure that all Americans -- whether they're in New York, California, Florida, anywhere across the U.S. -- are protected," said Gabe Knight, safety policy analyst at Consumer Reports.
