Why Do E-bikes Catch Fire? Check Out 12 Tips to Prevent It

Posted on: Jun 28, 2022 | | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Why Do E-bikes Catch Fire? Check Out 12 Tips to Prevent It

The vehicle you own is very precious to you. You prevent it from getting even a single scratch and so, when a major accident takes place, it proves to be quite devastating. Sadly, some e- bikes catch fire and that leads to a lot of distress for the bike owner. So why do e-bikes catch fire? There are several reasons why an e bike can catch fire. However, not to worry much.

Fortunately, there are some simple ways in which you can prevent a fire in your bike. Also, you must renew your e-bike insurance on time so that you are always covered against any mishap.

Let's find out more about e-bike fire and how to prevent e-bike battery fire in the article below.

What is an E-Bike?

Basically, an e-bike is a motorbike that is powered by an electric motor and rechargeable batteries. Compared to conventional gas-powered motorcycles, this bike has instant torque, smooth acceleration, and less noise. Having fewer moving parts and more economical electricity, e-bikes have less running cost and zero emissions from the exhaust. They represent a much more convenient and environmentally friendly means of transport and come in several variations.

Reasons for E-Bikes Catching Fire

There are several reasons that lead to an e-bike fire. Some of them are:

1. Due to the Combustible Liquid

Most of the present-day electric scooters and bikes use lithium-ion batteries. These batteries, though sturdy and highly effective, have some combustible fluids in them. When the battery heats up too much, there may be sparks, which can quickly ignite the combustible fluid and lead to a major fire. This is a common reason why these vehicles are seen catching fire.

2. Due to Excessive Heat

Almost every fire incident in an e-bike happens due to overheating. Heat is a bike’s enemy, so you need to ensure the battery doesn't overheat at any point. The heat makes the battery expand, which leads to explosions and fires. Also, the heat produces sparks, which further lead to fires.

3. Due to Faulty Parts

There are many internal parts and spares in an electric vehicle. The automobile company uses the best materials to ensure these parts are safe from fire and other dangerous issues. However, if you use a substandard quality part when replacing a damaged one, your bike may malfunction, and it can lead to a fire breaking out.

How to Prevent Fires in E-Bikes?

To know how to prevent ebike battery fire, here are some very handy tips that you can follow.

1. Follow Instructions

Like every other vehicle or gadget that you own, you get a user manual with an e-bike, too. This helps to understand how exactly you should use the bike, maintain it, and keep it safe. Follow the instructions to a T, and you will surely be able to protect your bike from all dangers, including fire threats.

2. Register for Warranties

You need to register for a battery warranty as soon as you buy the bike. This will help you to get the battery replaced if you notice a flaw at any time. A fire accident can be averted if you replace the battery as soon as you spot a flaw or damage in it. At times, people ignore these warnings and continue to use the damaged battery, which leads to fires.

3. Use Only Original Charging Cables

The automobile manufacturer will provide you with the required charging materials, which include the proper charging cables. Use only these cables and avoid using any alternative. If there is a discrepancy in the power input, the battery may heat up or even explode and the battery may catch fire at any time.

4. Avoid Power Extensions

Similarly, avoid using power cord extensions. The same issue can happen, and there can be differences in the voltage, wattage, etc. Using such cables and extensions can damage the battery and make it vulnerable to catchy fire at any time.

5. Install a Smoke Detector

You should install a smoke detector in the area where the e-bike battery gets charged. If this is in place, you can detect a fire in its absolute initial stage and stop it from blowing up. You can then remove the battery and save the entire vehicle from getting gutted.

6. Avoid Water Seepage into the Battery

Park your vehicle in a place where it stays dry. Water seepage into the battery can lead to it malfunctioning. The lithium-ion batteries do not react well with water and if there is any dampness in the battery, it can lead to explosions and fires.

7. Do Not Charge Overnight

As stated, overheating is the number one reason for e-bike fires. This is why you should take the battery off charge as soon as it reaches the correct mark. If you leave it to charge overnight, the automatic sensor may not work, and the battery may continue to charge, which can heat it immensely and lead to a fire.

8. Charge Only at Approved Points

There are many public charging points these days, but make sure you charge the e-bike only at government-approved points. It is best to charge at home, but if you need to do it outside your house, choose the charging point carefully.

9. Invest in Covered Parking

Leaving your vehicle out in the sun the whole day will make it even hotter. The battery will heat up, too. Then, when you connect the charger, more heat will get emitted and this can lead to a fire. This is why you should always look to park the bike in a covered area to keep it cool.

10. Avoid Storing Batteries

Do not store unused batteries at home. If you are not using a battery, discard it. Stowing it away for a period of time and then using it is never a good idea as the battery may leak in the interim period and cause accidents when you connect it back on.

11. Charge Away from Fires

This is quite an obvious point, yet many people make this avoidable mistake! Charge your e- bike far away from any open fire so as to protect it from the flames.

12. Monitor the Charging Process

Always monitor the charging process. If you notice any smoke or a foul smell, take it off the charger and inspect the battery. If you find any issue, do not hesitate to contact the service centre and get the battery replaced.

Keep your bike safe from these dangers now that you know more about them. Also, renew bike insurance on time so that even if there is a fire, you can make a claim and get compensated for the damages.

What to Do if Your E-Bike Catches Fire?

Here is a step-by-step guide on what you should do in case of an e-bike fire.

1. Stay Calm and Evaluate the Situation.

Things can get worse because of panic. Take a deep breath and rapidly survey the situation, assessing the extent of the fire and any immediate threat to you and others in the surroundings.

2. Leave the Area

If it is a huge fire and really fast-spreading, retreat immediately. As you back away to safety, warn those who may be near you. Finding an extremely safe place may be important because e-bike fires can be very fast-spreading and emit very dangerous fumes.

3. Use an Extinguisher

If you have the appropriate extinguisher, you can try to put out a small, contained fire. You can use an ABC extinguisher, but it might not be as effective as a Class D extinguisher, which is made of different combustible metals and can put out e-bike fires effectively. Aim at the base and spray in short bursts.

4. Call the Emergency Services

Call the emergency services immediately. Try to give them as much information about the fire as possible, noting the type of vehicle and its location. Any further advice/guidance should be followed

5. Avoid the Use of Water

Lithium battery reactions with water have the potential to cause an explosion or ignite a fire. Make sure you always use an electrical fire extinguisher while fighting flames.

6. Maintaining a Secure Distance

Even when you have finally managed to put out the fire, maintain a safe distance from the e- bike. This is because damaged lithium batteries are unstable; hence, there is a possibility that they will reignite.

7. Open up the Air

If the fire is indoors, ventilate the space to release any potentially hazardous fumes. If it's safe, open the windows and doors.

8. Consult Experts

Once the fire has been put out, consult with the experts to make plans for the cleanup and removal of the damaged e-bike. Batteries can be extremely dangerous even after a fire has been started; thus, in this case, proper disposal is essential.

9. Contact Your Insurance Company

Inform your insurance company about the incident as soon as possible. Provide them with all necessary details and documentation, including any photos or videos of the fire and damages. This will help in processing any claims related to the incident

Conclusion

It is not difficult to prevent an e-bike fire. Just follow the tips mentioned above and keep your bike protected at all times. Also, get a good electric bike insurance policy and renew it regularly so that you can make any claim if there is a requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes e-bike batteries to catch fire?

E-bike batteries can catch fire due to manufacturing defects, overcharging, physical damage, or exposure to extreme temperatures, leading to thermal runaway. A chain reaction causes the battery to overheat and ignite.

How can I prevent my e-bike from catching fire?

Prevent e-bike fires by using a certified charger, avoiding overcharging, inspecting batteries for damage, storing them in cool and dry places, and following the manufacturer's guidelines on maintenance and usage.

Are there any signs that my e-bike battery might catch fire?

Warning signs include excessive heat, swelling, strange odors, leaking, or unusual noises from the battery. If these occur, stop using the e-bike immediately and seek professional assistance to avoid potential fire hazards.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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