Toyota has a new solid-state battery that’s less dense and more stable than lithium-ion batteries. Here’s why it could be the answer to common EV complaints.
Read this before your laptop or e-bike becomes fireworks
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Maybe this photo is a little bit dramatic. BUT, electronics are exploding.
Everything from your phone to your e-bike runs on lithium-ion. While batteries are small energy wonders, they’re also tiny explosives just begging for an excuse to ruin your day. Or your house. Or your entire block.
As temps rise, so does the risk, so let’s talk about how to stop your tech from turning into a five-alarm fire.
💣 Why batteries go boom
Lithium-ion batteries are basically Red Bull for your gadgets: compact, high-energy and way too volatile to be taken lightly.
That’s why I don’t mess around, and neither should you. I had a staffer who wanted to charge his e-bike in the studios. When I told him nope, I got a dirty look that said, “She has no idea what she’s talking about.” Oh well, my name’s on the building, not his.
These batteries contain flammable electrolyte fluid, and if something goes sideways, like a short circuit, a fall, a shady charger or just a hot day, they enter a self-immolating spiral called “thermal runaway.”
Translation: It cooks itself until BOOM. Larger tech like e-bikes and EVs carry bigger batteries, which mean bigger flames that are almost impossible to extinguish.
💻 Laptops and smaller gadgets
- Never leave your laptop in a hot car, near a heater or in direct sunlight.
- If it feels hot to the touch, shut it down and let it cool.
- Monitor its temp with apps like TG Pro (for Mac) or Core Temp or Real Temp (for Windows). If it hits 176° F, that’s emergency spicy.
- Got an old phone or device you’re not using? Don’t toss it in a drawer. Use a fireproof battery bag (10% off) for safe storage. Cheap insurance.
🚲 E‑bikes (and other big battery tech)
- Only buy e-bikes with UL 2271-certified batteries. If you don’t see the cert, assume it’s a firestarter with wheels. This tip alone is worth the price of my newsletter.
- Use the original charger only. Not the $11 one named “China’s Best ZappyFire” from Amazon.
- Store your e-bike in a cool spot, away from direct sunlight, and not inside your home or garage while charging.
- Never leave it charging overnight or when you’re not home.
- If the battery smells like chemicals, looks bloated or starts whispering “soon” … STOP.
We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.
Tech myths: Streaming, AI, phone and computer ‘wisdom’ that isn’t
© Eric Broder Van Dyke | Dreamstime.com, © Niccolo Pontigia | Dreamstime.com, © Tero Vesalainen | Dreamstime.com
When it comes to tech myths, I’ve heard ‘em all. That’s why I’m here to help you keep a handle on what’s real and what’s not. Before we dive in, just a few reminders: Macs can get viruses, closing apps will not save battery life, and your smartphone’s memory doesn’t die after two years.
🔥 Power pod meltdown: Casely is recalling its Power Pods 5000mAh MagSafe wireless chargers because the lithium-ion batteries inside may overheat, expand or literally catch fire. Hit this link to see if it’s listed on your Amazon account recall list.
We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.
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It’s hard to resist inexpensive stuff shipped right to your door, even when you end up with hilarious fails like this. Want a way to score Temu-like deals without giving Communist China all your personal data? Meet Amazon Haul, the new online destination for dirt-cheap finds.
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The holy grail of batteries is almost here
Did you know lithium-ion batteries can explode and start fires? Listen now to find out how Harvard researchers are fixing the problem.
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