There’s an increase in the noise over potential fire risks from E-Bikes and other lithium-ion battery powered vehicles in strata buildings and calls for bans like in this report by @ABCNews.
But, that’s an unrealistic approach to take given the popularity of electric bikes, scooters and vehicles, the very likely huge increase in the number of electric devices in strata buildings, the legal impediments on blanket bans in strata buildings, and the practical impossibility of enforcing bans or limits.
It’s a typical over-reaction to strata problem as often happens for good motivations and bad reasons.
It’s also naive since there are lithium-ion batteries in all kinds of other devices found in strata buildings like power tools, laptops, mobile phones, digital cameras, portable battery packs, security and alarm systems, energy storage systems, etc. Plus, many deliveries coming to strata buildings including by Australia Post are increasingly using electric vehicles. And, of course electric wheelchairs and mobility vehicles use lithium-ion batteries.
Plus, it’s just another way that strata buildings, committees and managers are putting themselves at odds with the clear preferences of strata owners, strata renters, and the public at large.
What’s needed in strata buildings is better information about lithium-ion batteries and associated hazards, proper management of risks, and solutions for the worst of the potential problems.
As a starting point for a smarter approach than simple bans, here’s an article from @Propmodo that makes some suggestions for apartment buildings …