This is a blind spot well known to electric bike users, but still little taken into account at the regulatory level. Today, the European market is saturated with hundreds of different chargers, often proprietary, incompatible with each other and linked to a single manufacturer. Result: the experience is dissuasive for individuals, and it is a logistical headache for communities, rental companies and companies that operate fleets.
Fragmentation that slows adoption
In a letter addressed to the European Commission, 18 environmental NGOs, consumer associations and tourism organizations believe that this fragmentation “ unnecessarily slows down the ecological transition » and prevents the creation of a coherent charging network for electric bicycles and other light means of transport (scooters, cargo bikes, etc.). On a local scale, offering a universal charging point in a hotel, restaurant or tourist location becomes almost impossible without increasing the equipment and costs.
Organizations also warn of security risks: using an unsuitable charger can damage a battery or even cause an incident. Fleet operators, who juggle several models, are particularly exposed to these situations. Added to this is a total dependence on manufacturers, who control spare parts and accessories, sometimes for a limited period.
NGOs also point out the perverse effects of these closed systems on the durability of electric bikes. When a model’s charger is no longer manufactured or distributed, some users find themselves forced to abandon a perfectly functional bike. “ It is unacceptable that consumers are forced to give up their electric bike simply because a charger is no longer available », deplores Fynn Hauscke, head of circular economy policies at the European Environmental Bureau.
According to the signatories, a standardized connector would significantly improve the repairability and lifespan of equipment. It would also limit the production of redundant chargers, mechanically reducing electronic waste. An argument which echoes European precedents in terms of harmonization, in particular the imposition of the USB-C charger for electronic devices or the standards adopted for electric vehicles.
In the absence of spontaneous agreement from the industry, organizations are now demanding a legal obligation. They propose to integrate this requirement either into the European regulation on batteries, or into the future regulation on the ecodesign of sustainable products (ESPR). The letter was addressed to Commissioner Jessika Roswall, responsible in particular for the environment and the circular economy. The signatories hope for a rapid response, since they believe that the subject is ripe and that the economic, environmental and practical benefits are widely documented. Fingers crossed.
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