Micromobility is here to stay, and it’s changing how we experience urban life for the better. With Unagi’s membership program, you can enjoy all the benefits of a top-tier electric scooter without the sky-high price of ownership or the inconvenience of ride-sharing.
Amazon Aligns with Local Law 39, Halts Sale of Uncertified Lithium-Ion Batteries in New York City
In a decisive response to New York City's Local Law 39, Amazon has stopped selling uncertified lithium-ion batteries, a move that aligns with the city's heightened focus on fire safety. This change in Amazon's sales policy comes on the heels of a cease-and-desist letter from city authorities, highlighting the serious safety risks associated with these non-compliant batteries.
Background: A Safety Crisis in the Making
The issue gained prominence following a series of fire incidents in New York City, traced back to the use of uncertified and potentially dangerous batteries. These incidents underscored the risks posed by batteries sold at significantly lower prices than their certified counterparts, which were prone to overheating and catching fire. According to reports from the New York City Fire Department, there has been a substantial increase in fires caused by lithium-ion batteries.
Amazon's Response to the City's Directive
Following the city's directive, Amazon took swift action. The e-commerce giant removed all uncertified batteries from its listings in New York City, marking a significant step towards compliance with Local Law 39. This law, introduced in September, explicitly bans the sale of uncertified batteries and electronic mobility devices, imposing fines of up to $1,000 per violation for non-compliance. It mandates compliance with recognized safety standards, especially the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) certification.
Persistent Risks: Challenges Beyond Battery Sales
Although Amazon's compliance marks a step forward in fire safety and sets a precedent for other major retailers like eBay and Walmart, the broader issue of uncertified e-bikes and mopeds remains unaddressed. These vehicles continue to be sold and used, posing ongoing safety risks. There's a clear need for a holistic approach that not only focuses on the sale of compliant batteries, but also ensures that the vehicles themselves are safe and meet required standards.
The conversation around fire safety is also not just about stopping sales of non-compliant items; it's about creating a safer ecosystem for their use. For instance, one critical aspect often overlooked is the need for secure charging options and efficient battery exchange services.
Recognizing these challenges, New York City is taking proactive steps. The proposed "buy back" program is one innovative solution, aiming to replace uncertified batteries with safer, certified ones. This program, alongside new legislations for secure battery storage and efficient charging solutions, demonstrates the city's commitment to addressing all aspects of the issue. However, these initiatives face their own set of implementation challenges and will require coordinated efforts from various stakeholders, including government agencies, manufacturers, and retailers.
The Way Forward: A Collective Responsibility
Amazon's decision to halt the sale of non-compliant batteries reflects a growing awareness and responsibility among corporations to not only abide by the law but to actively participate in creating a safer environment for consumers. However, resolution to the challenges posed by uncertified batteries and electronic devices is not solely in the hands of retailers like Amazon. It requires a collaborative effort, involving manufacturers, law enforcement agencies, policy makers, and consumers. As New York City leads with its legislative and programmatic initiatives, it sets an example for other cities and jurisdictions to follow.
9/17/2024
Micromobility is here to stay, and it’s changing how we experience urban life for the better. With Unagi’s membership program, you can enjoy all the benefits of a top-tier electric scooter without the sky-high price of ownership or the inconvenience of ride-sharing.
8/1/2024
We’re excited to celebrate Unagi’s 5th Anniversary, and we want you to join the fun! To thank you for your support, we're hosting an exclusive $10,000 Airbnb giveaway. No purchase necessary—just enter for your chance to win! Hurry, the giveaway ends on 10/4/2024!
7/25/2024
In today’s fast-paced world, finding an efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation is crucial. E-scooters offer a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate urban landscapes. Unagi stands out not only for its superior design and performance but also for its affordability and unmatched rental program.
6/20/2024
You just got an Unagi Scooter and love it! The last thing you want is a brazen thief to be eyeing your prized possession and steal your scooter. As the micro-mobility trend continues to grow and scooters become more ubiquitous, unfortunately so will theft. Enter the Unagi Cinch Lock.
6/13/2024
The Unagi community has just surpassed an amazing milestone – 4,000,000 miles ridden on our scooters since we recently started aggregating mileage-ridden! This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without your support and enthusiasm.
5/1/2024
Elevate your style and conquer the city with the brand new Unagi and Mafia collab crossbody bag. This stunning, highly convenient bag is crafted from cutting-edge Dimension Polyant® X-Pac Shell fabric, making it waterproof and durable enough to withstand any adventure.
4/29/2024
Discover why I swapped my car for an Unagi Scooter! Dive into my journey from the monotony of traffic to the freedom of city streets, exploring the excitement, eco-friendliness, and simplicity of scooter life. Join the ride towards a more adventurous, sustainable urban lifestyle. Will you join me?
4/2/2024
Explore our latest feature in the Voyager's smart mobile app: Ride Recording. Now, you can effortlessly track your journeys, monitor stats, and review your ride history to see how far you've traveled, and much more. Discover this and more in the Unagi Voyager’s smart app!
3/22/2024
People all over the world are discovering how your own perfect electric scooter can make life more efficient, adventurous, and fun. Emma Magidson is a New York-based set designer who’s always on the go — the Unagi makes it possible.
9/17/2024
Micromobility is here to stay, and it’s changing how we experience urban life for the better. With Unagi’s membership program, you can enjoy all the benefits of a top-tier electric scooter without the sky-high price of ownership or the inconvenience of ride-sharing.
4/29/2024
Discover why I swapped my car for an Unagi Scooter! Dive into my journey from the monotony of traffic to the freedom of city streets, exploring the excitement, eco-friendliness, and simplicity of scooter life. Join the ride towards a more adventurous, sustainable urban lifestyle. Will you join me?
3/5/2024
Like every good relationship, our team has long-term goals to keep you and your Unagi in tip-top condition. You can ride on with confidence knowing that our amazing service team is here to support you. Trust us: the pleasure is all ours.
2/22/2024
We're excited to share the buzz from our latest Unagi U-Nite in the heart of Miami, a vibrant gathering that brought our community together in a celebration of art, taste, and electric mobility. Our Miami adventure was a curated experience, blending the thrill of discovery with the joy of connection.
1/30/2024
We’re thrilled to recap our latest San Francisco Unagi U-Nite, a series of unique monthly meet-ups uniting our community through food, music, and culture. Partnering with local businesses, we aim to offer our members unforgettable experiences.
1/4/2024
At Unagi, we believe that every aspect of our scooters should reflect our commitment to a greener, cleaner future. That's why our unboxing experience isn't just an afterthought; it's a carefully crafted expression of our dedication to sustainability.
12/5/2023
At Unagi, we’re determined to be here for our customers. That's why we’re excited to invite you to visit our flagship store in the heart of SoHo. So come on in—we can't wait to meet you.
10/20/2023
The October 8th group ride was more than an event; it was a testament to what Unagi represents: community, freedom, and unbridled fun. The streets of NYC bore witness to an electric revolution, punctuated by the joyous beats of an afterparty.
10/16/2023
Life as a student? It's a whirlwind mix of cram sessions, legendary parties, and the eternal hunt for the ultimate budget munchies. Throw in that trudge between campuses or the unpredictability of public transport, and the struggle gets all too real. Enter the age of the e-scooter.
1/1/2024
In the bustling streets of our urban landscapes, finding a mode of transport that combines efficiency, style, and convenience is akin to discovering a hidden treasure. Enter the Unagi Model One Classic. Recently, Top 10 Zone turned the spotlight on the E500, and their praise was nothing short of revelatory.
11/21/2023
Dubai, a city known for its futuristic skyline and innovative projects, is now taking a bold leap into micromobility by hosting the world's first high-speed electric scooter race.
4/4/2023
The Unagi Model One might be the most reviewed electric scooter in existence, receiving tons of coverage. In 2020, they did something totally unique–a monthly subscription service. This year, they bring us the Unagi Voyager, the latest upgraded version of their iconic Model One scooter.
7/25/2024
In today’s fast-paced world, finding an efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation is crucial. E-scooters offer a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate urban landscapes. Unagi stands out not only for its superior design and performance but also for its affordability and unmatched rental program.
6/20/2024
You just got an Unagi Scooter and love it! The last thing you want is a brazen thief to be eyeing your prized possession and steal your scooter. As the micro-mobility trend continues to grow and scooters become more ubiquitous, unfortunately so will theft. Enter the Unagi Cinch Lock.
6/13/2024
The Unagi community has just surpassed an amazing milestone – 4,000,000 miles ridden on our scooters since we recently started aggregating mileage-ridden! This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without your support and enthusiasm.
4/2/2024
Explore our latest feature in the Voyager's smart mobile app: Ride Recording. Now, you can effortlessly track your journeys, monitor stats, and review your ride history to see how far you've traveled, and much more. Discover this and more in the Unagi Voyager’s smart app!
3/20/2024
With Unagi All-Access Membership, top-notch support is at your fingertips. Our on-site chatbot can assist with subscription queries, scooter troubleshooting, or route advice. For troubleshooting, include your scooter's serial number and issue description. And don't forget to keep your box for swaps and returns.
2/15/2024
Unagi transforms urban commuting with the Model One scooter. Economical, efficient, and eco-friendly, it offers freedom from traffic and high costs. Glide through the city with style and ease. Here’s a few reasons why we think our Model One scooter is the best urban commuter.
1/2/2024
Your commute plays a significant role. It can set the tone for your day and impact your overall well-being. That's where Unagi Membership comes in – it's your passport to a stylish and sustainable journey in the New Year. Here's why Unagi Membership is the ultimate choice for your 2024 commute!
12/19/2023
As gas prices continue to soar, Unagi electric scooters emerge as an ultimate solution for cost-sufficient, eco-friendly commuting.
12/11/2023
Unagi subscribers! Discover a new level of freedom by referring a friend to Unagi All-Access and get $100 off your subscription! You and a friend can unlock a world of convenience and eco-friendly transportation at your fingertips for free.
3/22/2024
People all over the world are discovering how your own perfect electric scooter can make life more efficient, adventurous, and fun. Emma Magidson is a New York-based set designer who’s always on the go — the Unagi makes it possible.
1/20/2022
Serafima is a real estate broker living a busy life in New York City. In this short video we see the ways she’s come to rely on the Unagi scooter to move around the city for work and pleasure. It’s eye opening to see how she picked up an Unagi and found a perfect fit.
11/8/2022
Alessandra Ambrosio was featured in Us magazine’s Stars—they’re just like us section riding her Unagi scooter while running errands in LA. The busy Victoria’s Secret supermodel and mother of two has a tightly-packed schedule, and what better way to get around LA than by this well-designed scooter?
8/4/2022
Coco Rocha, premier fashion icon and international supermodel, has marched the runway for brands such as Stella McCartney, Anna Sui, and Marc Jacobs, and graced the covers of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, W, Time Style & Design, among many others.
7/12/2022
We got invited to Soulja Boy’s 31st birthday, and we surprised him with a brand new Unagi scooter. Knowing parking would be hectic in the Hollywood Hills, we cruised up the winding roads on scooters instead, and arrived in style, without breaking a sweat.
7/1/2022
We’re proud to announce the new face of Unagi—the Godfather of Punk himself—Iggy Pop. The artist embodies freedom and individuality, two values at the core of Unagi, and we’re psyched to have the chance to collaborate with him on a series of films featuring the artist and his approach to life.