Train passengers and staff will be less at risk from lithium-ion battery fires as a result of a ban on converted e-bikes on the NSW rail network.
Converted e-bikes are defined as regular pedal bikes that have been fitted with batteries and motors. These have higher risk of electrical failure due and fire risk due to DIY installations, inadequate wiring and use of second-hand batteries and incompatible or poor-quality components.
Other e-bikes, shared e-bikes and mobility devices will not be impacted, however Transport for NSW will continue to monitor all e-micromobility incidents closely. The decision will not apply to travel on concourses, lifts, escalators, or bike storage facilities outside of the fare gates. Riders passing through community access gates will not be impacted.
The growing popularity of e-bikes has meant a greater prevalence on our train network. Due to the risk of e-bike lithium-ion batteries igniting, and the additional risk posed by poorly made and modified devices, it will be illegal to take a converted e-bike on Sydney Trains, NSW Trainlink and Metro services from 1 November.
Carriage of a restricted converted e-bike would carry a penalty notice offence of $400 with a maximum penalty of 10 penalty units ($1,110). This is comparable to the existing offence for carrying a petrol-powered device on a train or railway premises. Ahead of the ban coming into effect, passengers are being asked not to bring any converted e-bikes on these services.
The move comes after extensive consultation with the rail and fire authorities, unions, e-bike users, delivery services, shared scheme operators and passengers. That engagement included a Transport for NSW Have Your Say consultation that received around 3000 responses, and a ministerial reference group with key stakeholders. We thank all parties who took part in the consultation.
Transport has been monitoring the risk of lithium-ion fires after two recent e-bike fires at Liverpool Station in August, Blacktown Station in April (which involved a converted e-bike) and on a Melbourne suburban train in March. So far this year Fire and Rescue NSW have reported 77 e-micromobility related lithium-ion battery fires.
To support the ban of converted e-bikes on trains, Transport will provide additional training for staff, conduct hotspot blitzes, and increase public messaging about the fire risk of modified devices.
To improve standards across all e-bikes, the NSW and Victorian Transport Ministers have written a joint letter to the Commonwealth Government requesting their support in strengthening Australia's approach to the safety of e-devices, to ensure that all devices imported, sold and used in Australia are safe and fit for purpose.
The NSW Government recognises the increasingly important role e-micromobility devices will play in the future of public transport, including the ability to mode shift and complete the 'last mile' between metro and train stations and destinations. In order to safely integrate e-bikes the government is currently drafting legislation to better regulate shared devices.
Minster for Transport John Graham said:
"We take the safety of our rail passengers and staff very seriously which is why we are taking the highest risk e-bikes out of train carriages.
"The overwhelming message from the consultation was that banning all e-bikes from trains would go too far. Taking out the highest risk e-bikes is a sensible and balanced step, but we will watch this space very closely and take further action if necessary.
"E-bikes are becoming more popular and playing an increasing role in our transport network. Our aim is to allow people to enjoy their advantages whilst keeping everyone safe.
"It's a timely reminder ahead of Christmas - if you're thinking of getting an e-bike, take a look at the Fair Trading website and look for a quality bike, to make sure you're investing in safety."
Transport for NSW Secretary Josh Murray said:
"Electronic devices have transformed the way we live, work, and commute - but without boundaries, some have also introduced new risks and the potential to disrupt our safe rail operations.
"This isn't a matter of jumping at shadows. Our safety experts have been monitoring this emerging situation very closely, and we're taking a sensible approach in consultation with our rail and transport operators.
"We urge people to purchase good quality e-bikes that comply with minimum product safety standards and avoid any modification to their bike.
"Put simply, the idea of blocked aisles, confined spaces and battery fires from risky devices don't mix."
