What are the testing standards for electric scooters?

What are the test standards for electric scooters?

1. Performance test standards

1.1 Maximum speed test

According to GB/T 42825-2023 General Technical Specifications for Electric Scooters, the maximum speed of electric scooters shall not exceed 25km/h. This standard is set to ensure the safety of users and avoid traffic accidents caused by excessive speed. In actual tests, electric scooters are usually measured at maximum power output on flat and dry roads in closed test sites using professional speed measuring equipment to ensure that they meet national standards.

1.2 Braking performance test
Braking performance is one of the important indicators of the safety performance of electric scooters. The test content includes braking distance and braking stability. When testing the braking distance, the electric scooter travels at a specified speed, and when the driver applies maximum braking force, the distance from the start of braking to the complete stop of the vehicle is measured. According to the standard, the braking distance of an electric scooter should meet a certain safety range. For example, on a dry asphalt road, when traveling at a speed of 20km/h, the braking distance should not exceed 4 meters. In addition, the braking stability needs to be tested to ensure that the vehicle will not skid, lose control, or encounter other dangerous situations during braking.

1.3 Motor speed test
The main purpose of the motor speed test is to ensure that the motor performance of the electric scooter meets the design requirements. During the test, the motor speed is measured under different loads and different working modes by professional speed measuring equipment. According to the standard, the motor speed should be stable within a certain range. For example, under rated load, the fluctuation of the motor speed should not exceed ±5% of the rated speed. In addition, the speed change of the motor after long-term operation needs to be tested to evaluate the durability and reliability of the motor.

2. Safety test standards

2.1 Vehicle safety test
Vehicle safety test is an important guarantee for the safety performance of electric scooters, covering strict inspections in many aspects.
Vehicle load drop test: Apply and fix the maximum load specified by the manufacturer on the pedal of the test vehicle, fix the rear wheel, lift the front wheel to a height of 200mm, and then drop it on a flat surface with moderate hardness, repeat 3 times. After the test, the electric scooter should not catch fire, explode, or leak, the main bearing structure should not have obvious damage or deformation, and the driving should be normal. This test simulates the falling conditions that the electric scooter may encounter in actual use, ensuring its safety in the event of an accidental fall.
Vehicle vibration test: The electric scooter is fixed on a vibration table to simulate the vibration environment in actual driving. After the test, the battery should not catch fire, explode, or leak, the mechanical structure should not have cracks or breaks, and the electrical components should function normally. This test ensures the stability and reliability of the electric scooter in a long-term vibration environment.
Vehicle fatigue strength test: The maximum load specified by the manufacturer is placed and fixed at the center of the pedal of the test vehicle, and a load of 5kg is applied to the center of each of the two grips. The rear wheel of the electric scooter is fixed, and the front wheel is placed on a roller with a diameter of not less than 700mm. A boss is installed on the surface of the roller, and the vehicle is driven at a speed of 2m/s for 50km. After the test, there are no visible cracks or breaks in the frame, and all components work normally. This test simulates the fatigue of the electric scooter in long-term use, ensuring its safety after long-term use.

2.2 Mechanical safety test
The mechanical safety test is mainly aimed at the various mechanical parts of the electric scooter to ensure its safety and reliability during use.
Pedal static strength test: Apply 3 times the maximum load specified by the manufacturer to the center point of the pedal through a support with a cross-sectional size of 150mm×150mm and maintain it for 5 minutes. After removing the load and standing for 10 minutes, measure the permanent deformation of the force-bearing part of the pedal, and the permanent deformation should not be greater than 5mm. This test ensures the strength and stability of the pedal when it is subjected to a large load.
Handlebar static load strength test: Apply loads in different directions to the handlebar, including resistance to downward force, resistance to upward force, resistance to forward force and resistance to backward force. Apply a load of (250±5)N in each direction and maintain it for 5 minutes. After the test, the handlebar should have no obvious deformation, cracks or breaks, and can be operated and locked normally. This test ensures the strength and stability of the handlebar under various stress conditions.
Handlebar fatigue strength test: Fix the test vehicle horizontally, apply a force of 270N in the upper rear (upper/rear) direction, evenly distribute it on both sides of the handlebar cross tube 25mm away from the end, and then repeat the operation in the opposite direction. Applying force in two directions is one cycle, and repeat 10,000 cycles at a frequency of no more than 1Hz. After the test, there should be no visible cracks, damage, obvious deformation and looseness in all parts of the handlebar. This test simulates the fatigue of the handlebar in long-term use to ensure its safety after long-term use.
Steering fatigue strength test: Fix the test vehicle horizontally, apply a torque of 10N·m to rotate the handlebar from one extreme position to another, and repeat 10,000 times at a frequency of no more than 0.5Hz. After the test, there should be no visible cracks, damage, obvious deformation and looseness in all parts of the handlebar, bendable wire and its sheath. This test ensures the reliability and safety of the steering system.

2.3 Electrical safety test
The electrical safety test is mainly aimed at the electrical system of the electric scooter to ensure its safety and reliability during use.
Battery safety performance test: The battery is the core component of the electric scooter, and its safety is crucial. The test content includes battery overcharge protection, over-discharge protection, short circuit protection, temperature protection, etc. For example, the battery should be able to automatically cut off the charging circuit when overcharged to prevent the battery from overheating and catching fire; it should be able to quickly cut off the circuit when short-circuited to avoid safety hazards caused by excessive current. In addition, the durability of the battery needs to be tested to ensure its performance and safety in long-term use.
Charger performance test: The performance of the charger directly affects the service life and safety of the battery. The test content includes the output voltage stability, charging efficiency, overload protection, etc. of the charger. For example, the output voltage of the charger should be within the specified range to ensure the normal charging of the battery; it should be able to automatically cut off the power supply when overloaded to prevent damage to the charger and battery.
Electromagnetic compatibility test (EMC): Electromagnetic compatibility test is an important test to ensure that the electric scooter works normally in a complex electromagnetic environment. The test content includes electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electromagnetic immunity (EMS). For example, the electric scooter should not generate electromagnetic interference to the electronic equipment around it when working, and it should also be able to resist external electromagnetic interference to ensure its normal operation.

3. Environmental adaptability test standards

3.1 Waterproof and dustproof test
Waterproof and dustproof test is an important part of evaluating the performance of electric scooters in harsh environmental conditions. According to GB/T 42825-2023 General Technical Specifications for Electric Scooters, the waterproof and dustproof level of electric scooters should meet the relevant requirements of the IP code. The specific test methods are as follows:
Waterproof test: Place the electric scooter in a simulated rain environment, and set different water flow, water pressure and spray angle according to different waterproof level requirements. For example, for IPX4 waterproof, the electric scooter needs to be splashed in all directions for no less than 10 minutes. After the test, check whether the electrical components, batteries and other key parts of the electric scooter have water ingress and whether the functions are normal. According to the standard, after the IPX4 waterproof test, the electrical system of the electric scooter should be able to work normally without short circuit, leakage and other phenomena.
Dustproof test: Place the electric scooter in a test box filled with dust, and set different dust concentrations and test times according to different dustproof level requirements. For example, for IP5X dustproof, the dust concentration in the test chamber should reach 2kg/m³, and the test time should be no less than 8 hours. After the test, check whether the mechanical parts, electrical interfaces and other parts of the electric scooter are dusty and affect normal operation. According to the standard, after the IP5X dustproof test, the mechanical parts of the electric scooter should be able to move normally, and there should be no obvious dust accumulation on the electrical interfaces to ensure reliable connection.

3.2 High and low temperature test
The high and low temperature test is designed to evaluate the performance and reliability of electric scooters under extreme temperature conditions. The test content includes:
High temperature test: Place the electric scooter in a high temperature test chamber, set the temperature to 50℃, and last for no less than 2 hours. In a high temperature environment, check whether the key components of the electric scooter, such as the battery and motor, have problems such as overheating, deformation, and performance degradation. According to the standard, after the high temperature test, the discharge capacity of the battery of the electric scooter should be no less than 90% of the rated capacity, and the speed fluctuation of the motor should be within the allowable range.
Low temperature test: Place the electric scooter in a low temperature test box, set the temperature to -20℃, and last for no less than 2 hours. In a low temperature environment, check the starting performance and battery life of the electric scooter. According to the standard, the electric scooter should be able to start normally within the specified time after the low temperature test, the discharge capacity of the battery should not be less than 70% of the rated capacity, and the driving performance should meet the design requirements.

3.3 Durability test
Durability test is an important means to evaluate the reliability and stability of electric scooters during long-term use. The test content includes:
Vehicle durability test: simulate the actual use scenario of the electric scooter and conduct a long-term driving test. For example, on a specified road surface, drive 1,000 kilometers at rated load and rated speed. During the test, record the number of failures, performance changes and other data of the electric scooter. According to the standard, after the durability test, the main components of the electric scooter (such as frame, motor, battery, etc.) should not be obviously damaged, and the performance indicators should meet the design requirements.
Component durability test: The key components of the electric scooter (such as handlebars, pedals, brake systems, etc.) are tested for durability. For example, the handlebars are tested for 100,000 swings from side to side, and the pedals are tested for 50,000 steps. After the test, the components are checked for wear and tear and whether they function normally. According to the standard, each component should have no obvious damage after the durability test, function normally, and meet the use requirements.

4. Other test standards

4.1 Appearance and logo requirements test
The appearance and logo requirements test is an important part of the electric scooter test. The main purpose is to ensure that the appearance quality and logo of the product meet the relevant standards and are easy for consumers to identify and use.
Appearance quality test: Check whether the appearance of the electric scooter has defects, such as surface scratches, coating uniformity, and component assembly tightness. According to the "GB/T 42825-2023 General Technical Specifications for Electric Scooters", the appearance of the electric scooter should be neat and free of obvious defects. For example, the coating on the surface of the body should be uniform, without blistering or shedding; the parts should be firmly installed without looseness.
Logo requirements test: Check whether the logo of the electric scooter meets the standard requirements, including product name, model, manufacturer information, rated voltage, rated power, maximum speed and other logos. These logos should be clear, durable and easy to identify. For example, the product nameplate should be installed in a conspicuous position, and the font size and color should meet the relevant standards to ensure that it can be clearly identified under normal use conditions.

4.2 Flame retardant performance test
Flame retardant performance test is an important part of evaluating the safety performance of electric scooters in extreme situations such as fire. According to GB/T 42825-2023 General Technical Specifications for Electric Scooters, the flame retardant performance of electric scooters should meet the requirements of relevant standards.
Test method: The key components of electric scooters (such as battery housing, body materials, etc.) are tested using the horizontal combustion method or the vertical combustion method. In the test, the sample is exposed to the flame and its burning rate and self-extinguishing time are measured. For example, the burning rate of the battery housing should not exceed the specified maximum value, and it can self-extinguish within the specified time after the flame is removed.
Test result evaluation: Based on the test results, evaluate whether the flame retardant performance of the electric scooter meets the standard requirements. For example, if the burning rate exceeds the maximum value specified in the standard, or the self-extinguishing time is too long, the flame retardant performance of the component is considered unqualified. Through flame retardant performance testing, the risk of electric scooters in fire can be effectively reduced and the safety of users can be guaranteed.

4.3 Folding life test
The folding life test is mainly for foldable electric scooters to evaluate the reliability and durability of their folding mechanism in long-term use. According to the "GB/T 42825-2023 General Technical Specifications for Electric Scooters", the folding life test is one of the important test items for electric scooters.
Test method: The folding mechanism of the electric scooter is repeatedly folded and unfolded to simulate the folding process in actual use. Usually, the number of tests is not less than 10,000 times to ensure the reliability of the folding mechanism in long-term use. During the test, the wear, looseness and failure of the folding mechanism are recorded.
Test result evaluation: According to the test results, the life and reliability of the folding mechanism are evaluated. For example, if the folding mechanism is loose, stuck or cannot be folded and unfolded normally within the specified number of tests, it is considered that its folding life does not meet the standard requirements. Through the folding life test, it can be ensured that the folding function of the electric scooter is normal in long-term use, and the service life and user experience of the product can be improved.

5. Summary
Through a detailed analysis of the various test standards for electric scooters, we can fully understand their strict requirements in terms of performance, safety, environmental adaptability and other aspects. The formulation and implementation of these standards are intended to ensure the safety, reliability and durability of electric scooters in actual use, and provide consumers with high-quality product guarantees.

5.1 Importance of performance test standards
Performance test standards are the guarantee of the core functions of electric scooters. The maximum speed test, braking performance test and motor speed test ensure that electric scooters can meet daily use needs and ensure the safety of users from three aspects: speed control, safety guarantee and power output. The strict implementation of these test standards enables electric scooters to meet the minimum requirements stipulated by the state in terms of performance, providing consumers with a reliable means of travel.

5.2 Comprehensiveness of safety test standards
Safety test standards cover multiple aspects such as vehicle safety, mechanical safety and electrical safety. The vehicle load drop test, vibration test and fatigue strength test simulate various extreme situations that electric scooters may encounter in actual use, ensuring their safety after accidental drops, long-term vibrations and long-term use. Mechanical safety testing tests the strength and fatigue performance of key components such as pedals and handlebars to prevent accidents caused by component damage. Electrical safety testing focuses on the safety performance of batteries and chargers, as well as electromagnetic compatibility, to ensure that electric scooters will not cause dangers due to electrical failures during use.

5.3 Necessity of environmental adaptability test standards
The environmental adaptability test standards evaluate the performance and reliability of electric scooters under different environmental conditions. Waterproof and dustproof tests, high and low temperature tests, and durability tests simulate rain, dust, high temperature, low temperature, and long-term use, respectively, to ensure that electric scooters can work normally in various harsh environments. The implementation of these test standards enables electric scooters to adapt to different usage environments, extend their service life, and improve the market competitiveness of products.

5.4 The supplementary role of other test standards
In addition to the above-mentioned main test standards, other test standards such as appearance and logo requirements test, flame retardant performance test, and folding life test also provide supplementary guarantees for the overall quality of electric scooters. Appearance and logo requirements test ensures that the appearance quality and logo of the product meet the standards, which is convenient for consumers to identify and use. The flame retardant performance test evaluates the safety performance of electric scooters in extreme situations such as fire, effectively reducing the risk of fire. The folding life test tests the folding mechanism of foldable electric scooters to ensure their reliability and durability in long-term use.
In summary, the various test standards for electric scooters comprehensively regulate their performance, safety and environmental adaptability from multiple angles. The strict implementation of these standards not only protects the personal safety and user experience of consumers, but also promotes the healthy development of the electric scooter industry and provides the market with high-quality product guarantees.