BYD has solidified its position as the world’s second-largest EV battery maker, claiming a substantial 15.8% global market share in 2023. While BYD’s batteries have been predominantly utilized in electric cars and stationary storages, their application in electric motorcycles, e-bikes, and other two-wheelers has been limited. However, recent developments indicate a significant shift in this trend.
The company announced today its plans to intensify its investment and research and development efforts to cater specifically to the two-wheeler battery market. FinDreams, BYD’s wholly-owned battery subsidiary, disclosed on its WeChat platform its commitment to producing safe and reliable batteries tailored for the two-wheeler segment. Collaborating with various third parties, FinDreams aims to develop batteries suitable for indoor placement, prioritizing safety and convenience for consumers. “Our mission is to provide batteries that inspire confidence,” the company emphasized.
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This strategic move follows a tragic incident in the Yuhuatai district of Nanking on February 23, where 15 individuals lost their lives and 44 were injured in a fire in a residential building. While investigations into the exact cause are ongoing, reports suggest the fire may have originated in the area where two-wheelers were parked, sparking concerns about the safety of e-scooters. Consequently, several Chinese cities have imposed bans on parking two-wheelers indoors.
According to data from the National Fire and Rescue Bureau, China witnessed 21,000 reported electric two-wheeler fires in 2023, representing a 17.4% increase from the previous year’s figures. In 2022, the number stood at 18,000, marking a 23.4% rise from 2021.
In response to safety concerns, the “Safety Technical Specifications for Lithium-Ion Batteries for Electric Motorcycles,” released last year, now includes stringent criteria to ensure battery performance in diverse and unforeseen circumstances or environments. These include scenarios involving compression, vibration, free falls, and specialized conditions such as low air pressure or extreme temperatures. Furthermore, the specifications outline criteria such as shell flame resistance, handle durability, and waterproofing.
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BYD’s venture into the electric motorcycle market is not entirely new. In July 2023, the company entered into an agreement with Singaporean two-wheeler brand Scorpio Electric to assemble their first electric scooter, the X1, in Shenzhen for the Chinese market. Although the X1 currently utilizes batteries from Samsung, Scorpio Electric expressed interest in leveraging BYD’s batteries for future products.
Additionally, BYD collaborated with Spanish motorcycle brand Nerva in 2022, supplying their LFP battery for Nerva’s new electric motorcycle. The Nerva Exe E-Scooter, launched in February of the same year, boasts a 5.76 kWh LFP battery and can charge from 0-80% in just 3.5 hours.
