The Verband der Elektrotechnik Elektronik Informationstechnik (VDE) e.V. and the Deutsche Kommission Elektrotechnik Elektronik Informationstechnik (DKE) have initiated a standardization project for batteries and battery packs used in e-bikes and e-scooters. The aim of this project is to establish uniform connection and installation conditions, contact points, designations, dimensions, and connection specifications. This is necessary because the market for e-bikes and e-scooters is growing, and there are currently a variety of manufacturer-specific standards causing issues with battery maintenance, replacement, and upgrades. Standardization would offer significant benefits to consumers, allowing batteries to be easily swapped between different models and brands, thereby contributing to resource conservation, recyclability, and environmental protection.
The project kick-off is scheduled for July 2024, with the goal of developing and publishing the standard within one year. The consortium is recruiting stakeholders including designers, manufacturers, retailers, distributors, logistics professionals, recycling companies, and consumers.
Similar initiatives exist in the realm of DIY tools and professional equipment. Here, the Ecological Democratic Party (ÖDP) is advocating for European-wide harmonization of batteries and chargers for environmental and consumer protection reasons. Despite many batteries sharing a standard voltage, their manufacturer-specific connectors often render them incompatible with devices from other brands. ÖDP argues that this situation is detrimental to both users and the environment. Following the recent Bundestag decision on a unified charging cable standard for mobile phones and similar devices, a unified battery standard is proposed for DIY tools.
Both initiatives aim to enhance consumer-friendliness and sustainability through standardization, improving battery compatibility and interchangeability to promote resource conservation and environmental protection.
*These organizations are responsible for standardization in the field of electrical and information technology in Germany.
