In this post, we will compare 2 of the popular electric bike safety standards: UL2849 and EN15194.
Introduction of electric bicycle standards
One of the main challenges in regulating e-bikes is the need for a universal definition and classification of what constitutes an ebike. Countries and regions have different criteria and requirements for e-bikes, such as maximum speed, power output, pedal assistance, throttle control, and braking system. This creates confusion and inconsistency among manufacturers, consumers, and authorities.
To address this issue, some organizations have developed standards and certifications for e-bikes that aim to harmonize the technical specifications and testing methods for e-bikes across different markets. Two of the most widely recognized and adopted standards are UL2849 and EN15194.
Overview of UL2849 and EN15194
What is UL2849?
UL2849 is a standard developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a global safety certification company based in the United States. UL2849 covers the safety requirements for electrical systems and components of e-bikes intended for use on public roads in North America. It applies to e-bikes with a maximum speed of 32 km/h (20 mph) and a maximum power output of 750 W. It also covers e-bikes with a throttle control or a pedal assist system that the rider can activate or deactivate.
UL2849 specifies the design, construction, performance, and testing criteria for e-bikes and their electrical systems, such as batteries, chargers, motors, controllers, wiring, and connectors. It also includes requirements for markings, instructions, and warnings for e-bikes. UL2849 aims to prevent hazards such as fire, electric shock, mechanical injury, and thermal injury from e-bikes.
What is EN15194?
EN15194 is a standard developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), a non-profit organization that represents the national standards bodies of 34 European countries. EN15194 covers the safety requirements for electrically power-assisted cycles (EPACs) for European public roads. It applies to EPACs with a maximum speed of 25 km/h (15.5 mph) and a maximum continuous rated power of 250 W. It also covers EPACs with a pedal assist system that only works when the rider pedals.
EN15194 specifies the design, construction, performance, and testing criteria for EPACs and their electrical systems, such as batteries, chargers, motors, controllers, wiring, and connectors. It also includes requirements for markings, instructions, and warnings for EPACs. EN15194 aims to prevent hazards such as fire, electric shock, mechanical injury, and thermal injury from EPACs.
Similarities between UL2849 and EN15194
Both UL2849 and EN15194 are voluntary standards that manufacturers can use to demonstrate the compliance and safety of their e-bikes or EPACs. Both standards are based on similar principles and methods of testing and evaluation. Both standards cover similar aspects of e-bikes or EPACs, such as electrical systems, mechanical systems, environmental conditions, and user information.
Differences between UL2849 and EN15194
Despite the similarities between UL2849 and EN15194, there are also some significant differences. Some of the main differences are:
Scope
UL2849 applies to e-bikes with a throttle control or a pedal assist system that can be activated or deactivated by the rider. EN15194 applies to EPACs with a pedal assist system that only works when the rider pedals.
Speed
UL2849 allows a maximum speed of 32 km/h (20 mph) for e-bikes. EN15194 allows a top speed of 25 km/h (15.5 mph) for EPACs.
Power
UL2849 allows a maximum power output of 750 W for e-bikes. EN15194 allows a maximum continuous rated power of 250 W for EPACs.
Classification
UL2849 classifies e-bikes as bicycles under federal law in the United States. EN15194 classifies EPACs as bicycles under European law.
Certification
UL2849 requires third-party certification by UL or another accredited body for e-bikes to bear the UL mark. EN15194 does not require third-party certification but relies on self-declaration by manufacturers for EPACs to bear the CE mark.
Final Thoughts on UL2849 vs EN15194
In conclusion, the UL2849 and EN15194 standards ensure the safety and compliance of electric bikes and EPACs for public road use in North America and Europe, respectively. While they share some common aspects, such as testing methods and safety goals, they differ significantly in scope, speed, power, classification, and certification requirements. Therefore, it’s essential for manufacturers and consumers to understand these standards and choose the appropriate one for their e-bikes or EPACs based on their intended use and location.
Key Takeaways:
- UL2849 and EN15194 are two of the most widely recognized and adopted standards for e-bikes.
- They cover similar aspects of e-bikes, such as electrical systems, mechanical systems, environmental conditions, and user information.
- However, some significant differences exist, such as scope, speed, power, classification, and certification.
- Manufacturers and consumers need to understand these standards and choose the appropriate one for their e-bikes or EPACs based on their intended use and location.
Sales Manager at Jieli Electric Bikes.
Near 10 years experience in electric bike industry, researching/marketing/promoting e-bike is my daily life.
