E-bikes pose safety risks due battery-related concerns, improper assembly or operation and lack of awareness, making it essential to take measures to ensure the safety of riders
Fueled by a growing environmental consciousness and a renewed focus on health and fitness, electric bikes (e-bikes) are emerging as the preferred mode of transport in urban India. Currently dominating the EV landscape, the two-wheeler segment accounts for over 80% of all EVs sold in India, primarily due to the affordability and practicality of electric scooters and motorcycles.
India's EV revolution aims for 25% of new vehicles to be battery-operated by 2024. Initiatives like reduced GST on EVs and the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme offer financial incentives for accessibility. Simultaneously, the Phased Manufacturing Programme (PMP) supports local manufacturing, fortifying the domestic EV ecosystem and economic growth. Aligning with this trend, the Indian government, guided by the NITI Aayog Electric Vehicle Mobility Vision 2030, aims for a monumental shift—100% EV usage—by the end of this decade.
Addressing Safety for E-vehicles
As India propels towards an electric future, ensuring the safety of e-bike riders becomes paramount. E-bikes pose potential safety risks due to factors such as elevated speeds, concerns related to batteries, issues arising from improper assembly or operation, and a lack of awareness regarding essential safety precautions. The safety of e-bike riders in India confronts challenges rooted in inadequate road infrastructure, non-adapted traffic regulations, limited rider awareness, and insufficient use of safety gear such as a helmet. In response, collaborative efforts between manufacturers and authorities are essential to address road infrastructure issues, advocating for dedicated e-bike lanes and smart road solutions.
Comprehensive rider education programs should be implemented to enhance awareness of safe practices and compliance with regulations. Additionally, manufacturers must actively promote the use of safety gear and incorporate features into designs, adhering to stringent quality standards. This holistic approach aims to overcome these challenges and ensure the safety of e-bike riders in India's electric revolution.
Fig 1: Kanchi Patel
Securing Coverage for Your Electric Vehicle
When considering electric commercial insurance for your vehicle, meeting specific emission standards is a prerequisite. Despite the inherently eco-friendly nature of electric vehicles, compliance with government-set emission standards is essential. According to the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988, insurance coverage is mandatory for every two-wheeler. Choices include third-party electric bike insurance or comprehensive bike insurance, with premiums influenced by factors like the vehicle's battery capacity. This intersection of emission standards and insurance options underscores the importance of aligning your environmental commitment with the necessary coverage for your electric vehicle.
Navigating Traffic and Ensuring Compliance
Navigating traffic poses a significant safety challenge for e-bike riders in India, requiring continuous vigilance and adherence to a consistent pace for safety. In the context of congested urban areas, special caution is imperative at intersections, and riders must be mindful of blind spots to mitigate the risk of collisions. Moreover, a key aspect of ensuring safety is a thorough understanding and compliance with local regulations, encompassing licensing and insurance requirements.
Knowledge of legal age restrictions and obtaining the necessary permits, with the minimum age to obtain a licence being 18, further contribute to overall road safety. By emphasising these aspects, riders can enhance their safety awareness and contribute to a safer e-bike riding experience in the diverse traffic conditions of India.
Fig 2: A designated E-bike lane. Pic by Andrew Gook
Charging Ahead: Battery Safety and Beyond the Joyride
In the electric mobility landscape, battery safety is paramount. One crucial aspect involves riders familiarising themselves with and strictly adhering to international standards governing lithium-ion batteries used in EV vehicles. This entails adopting best practices in handling and maintenance to mitigate the risks associated with battery failure. Electric scooters and bikes must use certified batteries ensuring compliance with government-set safety and performance standards. Avoiding uncertified batteries, modifications, and mismatched parts is key to preventing battery failure.
Damaged cells in the battery can experience uncontrolled temperature increases, which can lead to hazards such as battery reignition/fire. The majority of EV fire cases are due to a fault or defect in the battery design, or abuse of one or more battery cells (e.g., overheating, crushing, or overcharging), These fires can be especially dangerous due to the unique nature of the lithium-ion batteries used in these vehicles. It's important to adhere to recommended charging practices and avoid unauthorised alterations to maintain the safety and reliability of electric vehicle batteries. Neglecting safety measures escalates the risks associated with EV use, increasing the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and property damage.
Paving the Way for a Safe and Sustainable Transition
Recognizing the potential consequences of overlooking safety measures is imperative for riders and relevant authorities. Emphasising responsible riding, adherence to traffic rules, and implementing comprehensive training programs are critical components. Additionally, buyers must also remember to register their vehicle number plate with the RTO and obtain insurance and PUC certificates. Ignoring these aspects not only endangers e-bike users but also jeopardises the seamless integration of electric bikes into India's broader transportation ecosystem.
Through the seamless integration of safety measures with evolving regulations and ambitious government initiatives, India is poised not only to achieve the goal of 100% EV usage by 2030 but also to ensure a secure, sustainable, and seamless transition to electric mobility.
Kanchi Patel is the co-founder of Abzo Motors
