Standard for Safety — Batteries for Use in Light Electric Vehicle (LEV) Applications
UL 2271 is a safety standard for battery systems used in light electric vehicle (LEV) applications including e-bikes, e-scooters, e-mopeds, hoverboards, and similar personal mobility devices. It addresses pack-level safety requirements and is a key certification requirement following a series of fire incidents involving LEV batteries in urban environments.
Published by: UL Standards and Engagement
Current edition: UL 2271:2018 + Amendment 1 (2022)
Related standard: UL 2272 (electrical systems for personal e-mobility), EN 50604-1 (European LEV battery standard)
Scope
UL 2271 applies to battery systems for LEVs with motor power typically up to 750 W, operating at voltage classes up to 60 V DC. It covers lithium-ion battery packs including cells, protection circuits, and pack housing. The 2022 amendment significantly strengthened requirements following LEV battery fire incidents in New York City and other urban areas, and UL 2271 certification is now required by many building regulations and rental operators.
Key Requirements
Cell-Level and Pack-Level Safety
Cells must be sourced from UL 1642- or IEC 62133-certified suppliers or undergo equivalent cell-level qualification testing. Pack-level tests include overcharge, short circuit, crush, nail penetration, immersion, and drop tests. Fire propagation resistance between cells within the pack is assessed.
Charger Compatibility
Battery packs must be tested with their intended chargers. Misuse scenarios — including use with incompatible chargers — must not result in fire or explosion. Thermal runaway containment requirements ensure that a single-cell event does not propagate to a full-pack fire within a defined time window.
Disclaimer: This is not a definitive guide, just an indication and it is important that you always go back to the source for legislation.
References
- UL 2271, UL Standards