From scooters to e-bikes, the e-mobility market is thriving. If your company is looking to grow your product list to include e-mobility vehicles, you may be wondering where to start.

The primary concern of any manufacturer working on e-mobility vehicles should be safety. From the start of production, any e-mobility vehicle comes with a variety of safety protocols that need to be strictly adhered to in order to keep both the company and consumer safe.

In this article we will discuss different types of e-mobility products and what you need to know about safety testing before going into production.

An Overview of Micromobility Vehicles 

The vehicles covered in this article are classified as micromobility vehicles or light electric vehicles (LEVs). These vehicles are typically for personal used or for shared used and can be used by riders to travel short distances in an efficient way.

E-Bikes

While they might look like traditional bikes, e-bikes are aided by a battery and motor which assist riders in their pedaling efforts. Some bikes can go up to 28mph, helping riders get from point A to point B in a fast, safe, and eco-friendly way.

To comply with standards in the United States, companies must meet the following standards:

  • UL 2849 – this standard evaluates the electrical system.
  • UN 38.3 – this standard ensures the safety of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries during shipping.
  • 10 CFR 430.32(z) – this regulation by the Department of Energy (DOE) outlines energy consumption requirements for battery chargers.
  • 47 CFR 15 – this FCC regulation covers radio/wireless concerns with two separate sections: Subpart B for unintentional radiators, and Subpart C for intentional radiators

It’s important to know that not all e-bikes are not the same. Some varieties of e-bikes include:

  • Pedal Assisted: This type of e-bike requires riders to pedal to use the motor. These bikes may or may not include a throttle.
  • Throttle Only: These e-bicycles do not require riders to pedal to benefit from the motor. Riders simply use the throttle to start the vehicle. However, pedaling can help reduce battery use.

E-Scooters

Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in urban areas as a means of transportation. While many use the scooters from rideshare apps, an increasing number of consumers have started to invest in personal devices that they can store and charge at home.

For those looking to produce and sell electric scooters, testing for safety and performance is key.

At ACT LAB we provide the following services to ensure the safety and quality of your e-scooter products:

  • ASTM Standard F 2641 Powered Scooters/ Pocket Bikes
  • ASTM Standard F 2642 Safety Instructions and Labeling Specifications for Recreational Powered Scooters and Pocket Bikes
  • EN 62115 Electrical Only (Scooter)

E-Skateboards and Hoverboards

Electric skateboards are another popular option for riders who are looking for an efficient and quick ride. These vehicles allow riders to ride faster and control their speed.

Hoverboards are another popular standing micromobility vehicle that act as a self-balancing scooter.

Both e-skateboards and hoverboards have unique safety precautions that should be considered before going to market.

Contact us to discuss your individual product and our testing solutions for e-skateboards, hoverboards, and other electric micromobility vehicles.

About ACT-LAB

ACT-LAB is an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory that conducts consumer product safety and compliance testing for an active world. We can help ensure that your products both meet industry standards and are inspected to ensure the utmost quality.

To learn more about our tests contact us today.

Read more about our accreditations here.