E-Scooter Banned On Public Transport Over Battery Fire Fears

8 October 2024 - Alexander Broderick - Intern at Metro Dublin

On October 7th, 2024, the National Transport Authority banned electric scooters from public transport due to fire risks associated with their lithium-ion batteries. Rail Users Ireland supported the decision, highlighting the need for passenger safety.

On October 7th, 2024, the National Transport Authority (NTA) banned electric scooters from all forms of public transport due to safety concerns related to their lithium-ion batteries. The NTA explained that poor-quality batteries in e-scooters pose a significant fire risk, as these batteries are known to develop internal faults that can lead to overheating and combustion.

The NTA's reasoning is “These batteries are known to develop internal faults, leading to overheating and combustion. This has resulted in recent fires and thick black smoke on board public transport in Madrid and Barcelona,”

Dublin Buses at College Green

The ban applies to services including Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Go-Ahead Ireland, Iarnród Éireann, and Luas, but excludes e-bikes and mobility scooters, which are subject to stricter quality controls. According to the NTA, the manufacturing standards for e-scooters are not as well-regulated as those for e-bikes or mobility scooters, increasing the likelihood of dangerous malfunctions. This risk is heightened when the devices are damaged or improperly charged, especially in very hot or cold environments, further raising concerns about their safety.

Class 8100 DART at Connolly Platform 5

Following the announcement, Rail Users Ireland, a group focused on improving rail services, expressed their support for the ban. They highlighted the group's previous engagement with the Commission for Railway Regulation in 2022, where they had called for a ban due to the fire risks and the trip hazards posed by e-scooters on public transport.

As cities around the world grapple with the challenges posed by e-scooter proliferation, Dublin's ban reflects a growing recognition of the need for more stringent safety measures. The NTA’s proactive approach aims not only to prevent accidents and incidents but also to foster a culture of safety and responsibility among users of electric scooters. Moving forward, the NTA is expected to continue monitoring the situation and engage in further discussions on how best to integrate various forms of transportation within the city while prioritizing the safety and comfort of all passengers.