Barcelona is experiencing a summer marked by several heatwaves. In this context, the Bicing service has had to adjust its operations to guarantee service continuity and prevent intense heat from affecting its activity. Technicians have observed that approximately two out of every three electric bicycles return to stations with excessively high battery temperatures after use.
To prevent potential risks associated with battery overheating, these vehicles are temporarily removed from service until they cool down sufficiently to allow for a safe and efficient charging process. This measure can lead to a significant reduction in the availability of electric bikes during periods of higher temperatures.
To mitigate this effect, Bicing has launched a specific action plan. This plan includes adapting the bikes' charging parameters to improve their response to extreme heat conditions and optimize battery recovery. Furthermore, the electronic systems of the stations are being reviewed and adjusted to minimize heat-related incidents and expedite the charging process.
In parallel, the personnel dedicated to street-level inspection has been increased, and workshop resources have been strengthened to speed up bicycle repairs and reduce downtime. Logistics operations have also been intensified to redistribute bicycles among different stations, thereby ensuring better demand coverage across all city areas.
