Lithium-ion battery fires caused by do-it-yourself (DIY) repairs and modifications to e-bike batteries have been linked to several fires, including fatal incidents, an inquest in Sydney has heard.
NSW Deputy State Coroner Kasey Pearce is overseeing the inquest focused on four fires, two of which resulted in deaths. Evidence presented includes videos from testing labs demonstrating the intense heat and volatility of such fires.
At least two of the fires, including a deadly blaze in Lake Macquarie, were connected to "backyard" repair jobs on e-bike batteries. These repairs are often inspired by YouTube tutorials, with unlicensed individuals using soldering irons and parts purchased from eBay to conduct the work.
Counsel assisting the coroner, Ann Bonnor, questioned the involvement of unlicensed repairers. It was stated that these backyard operators, claiming expertise, have been linked to fires in New South Wales and Victoria. One witness noted having attended eight lithium-ion battery fires, most associated with unauthorized repairs or the addition of batteries to existing packs.
One fire occurred in September 2023 at short-stay accommodation in Cabarita Beach, Northern NSW, a day after a man collected his repaired e-bike battery. The man, Mr Shohan, told the inquest he thought he was dreaming when the fire started and fled while on fire. He also revealed that his original e-bike battery had been stolen the month before, prompting him to purchase a replacement.
The inquest focuses on micro-mobility vehicles, including e-bikes, e-scooters, and hoverboards, highlighting the public safety risks associated with unregulated battery repairs.
Notable Quotes
- "There are backyard operations, they have soldering irons and they purchase things off eBay to do repairs," the inquest heard.
- "Generally YouTube will show people how to do this [repairs] as well."
- "He said he had been to eight lithium-ion battery fires and most were linked to unauthorised repairs or people adding batteries to existing packs."
- "I woke to a huge sound, I thought I was dreaming," Mr Shohan recounted.
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