Latest developments on new Californian ebike and powered mobility device bill
SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 164.24, reporting on California’s new SB 1271 (Electric Bicycles, Powered Mobility Devices and Storage Batteries) law. The law was announced on September 27, 2024, and comes into effect on January 1, 2026.
Under SB 1271, the distribution, sale, lease or offer for sale or lease of an electric bicycle or powered mobility device is prohibited if the battery has not been tested by an accredited testing laboratory against specified standards.
The specified standards for powered mobility devices under the new law are:
- ANSI/CAN/UL 2272
- Other safety standards established in the rule
Specified standards for e-bike storage batteries (including those which are part of a complete electric system) under the new law are:
- ANSI/CAN/UL 2849 (such as ANSI/CAN/UL 2271)
- EN 15194 (that is EN 50604-1)
- Other safety standards established in the rule
The bill clarifies the definitions for ‘class 1 electric bicycles’ and ‘class 3 electric bicycles’ and specifies that the motor cannot exclusively propel the bicycle, except under certain circumstances.
In addition, on July 2, 2024, law AB 1774 clarified an existing law prohibiting the tampering or modification of e-bikes to change speed capability unless the classification on the labeling has been appropriately replaced. This applies only if the bicycle still meets the definition of an e-bike.
SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 164.24 also includes further information on SB 1271 and AB 1774, including requirements for charging systems, labeling, test documentation and conditions of e-bike rental.
Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 164.24 for more details.
SGS consumer product services SGS provides news about the development of regulations affecting consumer products as a complimentary service. With an unrivaled global network of laboratories, they offer physical/mechanical testing, analytical testing and consultancy work for technical and non-technical parameters applicable to a comprehensive range of consumer products. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS’s consumer product services.
SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full US California State Passes Bill Legislating Electric Bicycle and Powered Mobility Device SafeGuardS.
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For further information contact:
Vanessa Lin
Global E-bike Product Manager, Hardlines
Tel: +886 (2) 2299-3279
Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
About SGS
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