New Battery Rules Could Reshape E-Bike Industry

Mandatory federal rules set for 2026 aim to curb fire risks in e-bikes and scooters, with fines and recalls for non-compliance

14 May 2025

The federal government is turning up the heat on battery safety.

On April 30, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) proposed tough new rules for lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes, scooters, and hoverboards. The move targets a rise in fires tied to faulty or cheaply made batteries in micromobility devices.

If finalized, the rules would go into effect in 2026, replacing voluntary guidelines with mandatory standards. Batteries would need to meet strict requirements for fire resistance, overheating protection, and structural integrity. Noncompliance could lead to recalls, fines, or bans from the U.S. market.

The proposed mandate could upend how battery systems are designed across the board. From major brands to small-scale importers, manufacturers will likely need to invest in redesigns and better safety testing. Products marketed to kids face even tighter scrutiny, with more documentation and lab testing required.

The public comment period for the proposal ended on June 29. A final decision is expected in early 2026.

Safety advocates have long sounded the alarm about the risks of unregulated battery imports. The National Fire Protection Association warns that damaged batteries should never be used, and only certified devices should be purchased.

Critics worry the new rules might drive up production costs and limit low-cost options. But others see it as a needed correction that will boost trust in the booming e-mobility market.

The rule could also open the door for new investment and smarter designs, helping the industry grow more safely. If enacted, it would reshape how micromobility products are built, sold, and used across the country.