In recent years, multiple casualties have resulted from fires caused by electric bicycles spontaneously combusting inside buildings. Data released by the Fire Rescue Bureau of the Ministry of Emergency Management indicates that approximately 2,000 electric bicycle fires occur nationwide each year, with 90% of these fires occurring in public areas such as lobbies, hallways, and stairwells. Why do electric bicycles suddenly catch fire? Why is it such a hassle for owners to carry their bikes up and down stairs? However, frequent lithium battery incidents have raised concerns among many consumers. In reality, lithium batteries from reputable manufacturers undergo strict quality control and comprehensive production process oversight, making accidents uncommon. For instance, the May incident in Chengdu, Sichuan, where an electric bike exploded in an elevator, occurred because the owner used a recycled lithium battery that was persistently swollen. Similarly, the Hangzhou electric bike explosion resulted from the owner purchasing cheaper, unbranded lithium batteries that were incompatible with the charger. Generally, low-cost, substandard lithium batteries are the primary culprits behind electric vehicle fires and explosions. Lithium battery explosions occur extremely rapidly, leaving no reaction time in enclosed spaces. Therefore, you must never push the vehicle upstairs. The practice of residents bringing large vehicles upstairs is prevalent in older neighborhoods lacking dedicated e-bike parking facilities. Difficulties in charging downstairs lead to unauthorized wiring and chaotic vehicle storage. How can this be resolved? Since charging is challenging, eliminate the need for charging altogether. Opt for shared e-bikes. Electric vehicles utilize green energy, strongly advocated by the government. Investors are optimistic about returns from continuous financing, with increased user numbers lowering costs and innovative advertising partnerships generating profits. However, electric vehicle sharing consumes substantial public resources, heavily influenced by user behavior and policy, with high maintenance costs. If scaled nationwide to address residents' convenience and safety needs, it would create an enormous management system. The pressure it would bear and its operational costs are immense. Clearly, the development of shared electric vehicles faces a long and arduous journey.

Battery sharing presents another potential solution. With China's electric vehicle fleet nearing 300 million units, the convenience of scanning a code to swap batteries for instant range extension holds considerable market potential. Key factors affecting the profitability of individual swap stations include daily vehicle exchange volume, initial investment costs, ongoing management and maintenance, and stable demand for vehicle replacements. Consequently, shared battery cabinets are typically located near commercial districts rather than residential areas. However, the reality is that for many EV owners, power consumption is limited to commuting needs. Battery swapping not only seems costly but also involves the hassle of returning the battery afterward. Without expanding the profit model further, consumer and residential adoption will inevitably face significant resistance. Charging stations are unevenly distributed within communities, with many non-charging “zombie vehicles” occupying them long-term, creating management challenges for plug insertion and removal. Additionally, charging station companies face various obstacles when securing land for construction. Due to community layout constraints, station operators frequently encounter landowners holding out for higher prices, increasing construction costs. When local governments introduce charging station construction subsidies, stringent regulations often make it difficult for companies to qualify for these funds. With high construction costs, companies inevitably raise charging fees to turn a profit, leading to exorbitant rates. For widespread adoption and to eliminate the practice of bringing EVs upstairs, charging station companies must address all these issues.

Addressing the practice of charging electric vehicles upstairs should prioritize guidance over prohibition. Both measures and approaches must be proactive. The persistent issue stems from residents' lack of awareness about the hazards of upstairs charging, fueled by knowledge gaps and complacency. Relevant authorities and media must intensify public awareness campaigns to ensure residents fully comprehend the dangers of charging e-bikes indoors. Everyone should understand the risks and avoid them. Society at large can also take action: while managing e-bike parking and indoor charging practices, actively promote responsible choices. Guide users away from low-quality, cheap lithium batteries, encouraging selection from reputable manufacturers. Strictly prohibit charging lithium batteries in residential areas.