In a recent announcement, Mayor Eric Adams unveiled new regulations for a motorcycle exchange program aimed at enhancing the safety of lithium battery use. This initiative comes in response to multiple fires linked to electric motorcycles and lithium batteries in New York City, particularly in communities like Chinatown and Flushing, which have resulted in serious injuries and fatalities.
During the announcement on October 23, Adams highlighted that the city council has established comprehensive rules to protect citizens from the risks posed by lithium-ion battery fires. The program represents the city’s first pilot project focused on exchanging older electric motorcycles and battery-operated transportation devices for safer, certified options.
This initiative is part of the broader “Charge Safe, Ride Safe” campaign, which seeks to mitigate the risks associated with unapproved lithium batteries, while also removing unsafe vehicles from the streets to promote public safety. According to city officials, the program will allow eligible delivery workers to replace their non-compliant or unsafe bikes and batteries with certified high-quality alternatives at no cost.
Statistics reveal a pressing issue; New York City recorded 224 lithium battery-related fires last year alone, resulting in 122 injuries and 14 deaths. In 2023, the city has already seen 222 such incidents, causing 88 injuries and four fatalities. Notably, a tragic three-alarm fire in a Madison Street motorcycle shop in Chinatown claimed four lives, including a 71-year-old individual.
Adams emphasized that this exchange program is a significant step in reducing casualties and enhancing road safety. Many delivery workers currently rely on uncertified electric bikes or heavier gasoline-powered vehicles that lack Vehicle Identification Numbers, rendering them unregistered with the state Department of Motor Vehicles.
The city has invested $2 million into this replacement program, which will provide certified vehicles and batteries. To qualify, participants must reside in New York City, be at least 18 years old, own eligible work equipment, and have earned at least $1,500 as a delivery worker in 2024. Since most delivery operators report needing two batteries for a full day’s work, eligible individuals will be able to exchange for two batteries as part of this program.
