Personal electric transportation systems, which include devices such as the self-balancing hoverboard, the electrically assisted bicycle (pedelec), the electric motorcycle, and the electric scooter (e-scooter), are all new applications of lithium-ion battery technologies. The increasing demands placed on these systems present safety challenges that must be addressed proactively. Similarly, the exponential increase in the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, to fulfill commercial or tactical objectives continues to rely on safe battery technologies and electrical systems to operate properly.
“Personal electric transportation products are powered by an electrical system that includes lithium-ion batteries,” stated Francisco Martinez, director of Energy Systems and Electric Mobility at UL. "New and updated safety standards related to electric shock and fire hazards establish the foundation for lithium-ion batteries within the electrical system, enabling a common expectation of safer use of these devices. In line with our mission, UL is working to enable a future where batteries help our society move around more safely."
Earlier this year, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) urged manufacturers, importers, and retailers of self-balancing two-wheeled boards (hoverboards) to ensure that any such devices they "import, manufacture, distribute, or sell in the United States comply with currently applicable voluntary safety standards, including all cited standards and requirements included in UL 2272." In addition to its existing compliance guidance, as part of its Fiscal Year 2017 Operational Plan, the CPSC will work to address risks associated with devices powered by high-energy-density (lithium-ion) batteries and "system safety features that ensure high-energy-density batteries, battery assemblies, safety circuitry, end products, and chargers work together to achieve safe operation for their intended use.".
The updates to UL 2272 and UL 2849 reflect an expanded scope and address new technologies.
Personal Electric Mobility Device Electrical Systems – ANSI/CAN/UL 2272, First Edition. The scope of UL 2272 has been expanded. The UL Standard Technical Panel (STP) for UL 2272 voted on November 21, 2016, to publish the first edition to extend the scope to cover all types of personal electric mobility devices (single-rider; not road-legal; typically operated standing up; without pedals), as well as other personal electric mobility devices. Key updates include the following:
• Support for an updated list of personal electric mobility products, intended for a single rider, with a rechargeable electric propulsion system that provides balance and propels the rider and may include a handle for support while riding. The device may or may not be self-balancing. The Standard's name was updated from "Self-Balancing Board Electrical Systems" to "Personal Electric Mobility Device Electrical Systems."
• UL 2272 achieved binational accreditation, accredited as a national standard for the U.S. by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and for Canada by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC). Evaluation and certification of an individual standard ensures that national electrical system safety requirements are met in both countries.
Electric bicycles, electrically power-assisted cycles (EPACs), electric scooters, and electric motorcycles – UL 2849, Third Edition. The updated requirements of UL 2849 – Third Edition now address the latest critical safety issues to ensure the safe use of electric bicycles (single rider, but may carry a passenger; normally must be seated to operate; may have pedals; typically considered for road use) and minimize the risk of battery fire or explosion and the risk of electric shock. Key updates include:
• UL 2849 covers the electrical systems of pedelec (electrically pedal-assisted) bicycles and electric motorcycles and scooters for road use.
• The standard addresses the risk of electric shock under load during the product's lifespan and potential electrocution hazards.
The new UL 3030, Standard for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, supports safer electrical systems for commercial applications.
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, have gained importance in a variety of industries. UL 3030 addresses the electrical system requirements for UAVs used in commercial applications (agricultural, scientific, research, government, local law enforcement, search and rescue, video for the film industry or news broadcasting, and business-related flights for roof inspections). UAVs covered by UL 3030 are intended to be operated by trained pilots. Aspects such as airworthiness, control effectiveness, and similar issues are outside the scope of this standard but should be addressed through regulations, user programs, or other standards.
For more information on updates to UL 2272 and UL 2849 or on the new UL 3030 standard, please visit http://www.ul.com/eMobility
