Australia’s love affair with Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs) is growing, but this trend comes with both benefits and risks. Let’s explore the good and the bad of this burgeoning craze.
The Good
LEVs are attractive transport options that offer a range of benefits, including:
Portability & Convenience: Easy to carry and store, making them ideal for urban living.
Efficient Mobility: Perfect for short trips and navigating through traffic.
Personal Autonomy: Provides independence, especially for those without access to a car.
Eco-Friendliness: Reduces carbon footprint compared to traditional vehicles.
Cost-Effectiveness: Lower operating costs than petrol or diesel vehicles.
‘Last Kilometre’ Connectivity: Bridges the gap between public transport and final destinations.
The Bad
Despite their advantages, LEVs come with significant risks, primarily due to their lithium-ion batteries. These batteries, while efficient, pose a higher risk of combustion compared to those in conventional electric vehicles (EVs).
The ease and risk of battery abuse in LEVs are substantially higher, including:
Physical Damage: Batteries can be easily damaged through impacts.
Overcharging: Improper charging practices can lead to overheating.
Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to heat can increase the risk of battery failure.
Additionally, the low barriers to ownership and lack of regulation and oversight of imported products continue to increase the risk and frequency of fire events. Globally, LEV personal mobility devices have accounted for over 500 battery fires, compared to 44 fires in conventional EVs.
LEVs in Strata
The introduction of LEVs into strata communities presents unique challenges and risks. Unlike conventional EVs, which are generally parked in designated areas, LEVs are often brought directly into personal living spaces or shared areas, creating serious hazards.
A severe fire event in a strata community can affect the safety and homes of hundreds of residents, compounding the potential danger.
Harm Minimisation
To minimise the risks associated with LEVs, consider the following:
Proper Storage: Avoid storing LEVs in areas with poor heat dissipation, such as carpeted rooms or densely furnished spaces.
Safe Charging Practices: Never leave LEVs charging unattended or overnight. Most LEV fires start during charging, often when the battery is left unsupervised.
Regulation and Oversight: Advocate for stricter regulations and oversight of imported LEV products to ensure safety standards are met.
By being aware of these risks and taking appropriate precautions, we can enjoy the benefits of LEVs while minimising the potential hazards.
For more information, visit SCA (WA) or contact us at admin.wa@strata.community.
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