Right to Repair: what does it mean for e-bike batteries?

At its core, Right to Repair means that products are not “disposable” but can be maintained and repaired. Among other things, that means:

• parts that are easier to get hold of

• access to (basic) information about the product

• repairs that can also be done by someone other than the manufacturer

• longer technical and software support

This makes it easier and more attractive for consumers to have a product repaired instead of replacing it straight away.

An e-bike is a serious investment. The battery is often one of the most expensive parts, and it is exactly where wear shows after a few years:

• less range

• charging more often

• a greater chance of faults

If a battery has to be replaced with a completely new one at the first complaint, that means:

• higher costs for the user

• more raw materials used and more waste

• unnecessary CO₂ emissions from production and transport

When a repair or a cell replacement can be done in a safe and responsible way, it fits the Right to Repair principle exactly: you get more life out of the same product.

With e-bike batteries there is one more thing to consider: safety. A modern e-bike battery is a complex product containing:

• lithium-ion cells

• electronics (BMS/circuit boards)

• protection against overcharging, deep discharge and short circuits

Incorrect repairs, or tinkering with a battery yourself without the knowledge and the equipment, can lead to overheating, damage or, in the worst case, fire.

So with e-bike batteries it comes down to finding a balance:

• Yes, repair and cell replacement wherever possible

• But always with a proper diagnosis, test facilities and safety measures

Right to Repair does not mean that everyone should start opening batteries themselves. It means there is room for professional, independent repair and cell replacement, with attention to safety and to the regulations.

KWS Seuren is in favour of repairing wherever that can be done responsibly. For e-bike batteries, that means in practice:

• testing and measuring first: what is really wrong with the battery?

• re-celling where possible: fitting new cells, checking the electronics and checking the casing

• using suitable parts and measuring equipment

• safe storage and processing of lithium batteries, in line with the current guidelines

Working this way means that:

• batteries last longer

• raw materials are put to better use

• the total CO₂ footprint stays lower than with full replacement

• the user keeps riding on a safe and reliable battery

That is how Right to Repair and battery safety go hand in hand.

If you want to make a considered choice about the right to repair and your own e-bike battery, keep the following in mind:

• Always ask first whether a repair or a cell replacement is possible before you buy a completely new battery.

• Have work on the battery carried out by a specialist company with experience of lithium batteries.

• Do not open the battery yourself, certainly not without the knowledge, the tools and a suitable place to work.

• Hand in discarded batteries at an official collection point, so that they are processed and recycled safely.

That way your e-bike lasts longer and costs you less, and less ends up as waste.

Do you have questions about the options for repair, cell replacement or safe collection of e-bike batteries in your situation (private rider, shop, fleet or organisation)? Get in touch with us and tell us the brand and model of the battery. We will tell you what can be done safely.