New York City has recently faced a troubling rise in fires caused by electric scooters and lithium batteries, resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities, particularly in neighborhoods like Chinatown and Flushing. In response to this alarming trend, Mayor Eric Adams announced on October 23rd a comprehensive set of regulations for a new battery replacement program aimed at enhancing the safety of lithium-ion battery usage.

This initiative marks the city’s first pilot program for replacing older, potentially dangerous electric scooters and other electric mobility devices alongside their batteries. The plan will enable eligible delivery workers to exchange their unsafe or non-compliant equipment for certified, high-quality scooters and lithium batteries. This program is part of the broader “Charge Safe, Ride Safe” initiative, which aims to reduce the risk of deadly fires linked to uncertified batteries and remove illegal vehicles from the streets to enhance overall road safety.

As of last year, New York City recorded 224 fires associated with lithium batteries, resulting in 122 injuries and 14 fatalities. This year, the city has already seen 222 such incidents, leading to 88 injuries and 4 deaths. Notably, last year’s overall total included 268 lithium battery fires, with a tragic three-alarm fire on Madison Street in Chinatown claiming four lives, including that of a 71-year-old.

Mayor Adams emphasized that the replacement program will allow delivery workers to trade in their hazardous scooters and batteries for safer options at no cost, thereby further reducing the likelihood of injuries and enhancing road safety. Many delivery workers currently utilize uncertified electric vehicles and heavier gas-fueled scooters, which cannot be registered with the state DMV due to a lack of vehicle identification numbers.

The city is investing $2 million in this replacement program, which will provide certified vehicles and batteries to qualified participants. To be eligible, individuals must reside in New York City, be at least 18 years old, possess qualifying work equipment, and have earned at least $1,500 as a delivery worker in 2024. Given that many workers report needing two batteries for a full day’s work, those who qualify will receive two batteries in the exchange.