Fires started by e-bikes and batteries have been a major issue for the city. On Thursday, the city Department of Transportation took a major step to reduce the risk. 

The city distributed the first batch of 400 fire safety-certified e-bikes to delivery workers who traded in their old bikes.

“Today, we are taking action to reduce these fires,” DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez said at a media briefing. “This trade-in program will provide participants with safe e-bikes and batteries, certified to the highest fire safety standards, and get dangerous equipment off of our streets.”

As delivery apps grew in popularity in recent years, the use of cheaper, uncertified bikes proliferated — and so did fires caused by them. 

In 2023, e-bike fires in the city injured 150 people and killed 18. This year, there have been 110 fires, but only 25 injuries and no deaths. 

The FDNY credits education and community outreach around e-bike safety. But FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker says even certified bikes pose a danger and, when possible, should be charged and stored outside.

“They can start whether they’re certified or uncertified,” Tucker said. “Data collected in 2023 showed that nearly 60% of the fires by lithium-ion batteries were caused by batteries that were not being charged at the time.”

The new bikes don’t have a speed limiter, but the drivers are expected to obey the proposed 15 mph speed limit and take an online safety course. There is a speedometer on the handlebar. 

While there is no new funding to buy more bikes as of now, the DOT is reopening its wait list for the program in case others who previously applied drop out.

“I think for me and all the delivery workers across the city, it means a lot because of the city,” William Medina, a delivery app worker, said. “They recognize the work that we’re doing for so many years. And also because we deserve our dignity, we deserve this vehicle, because we would like to ride with safety.”