Core Viewpoint - The mobile power bank safety crisis in China has escalated rapidly, leading to significant regulatory actions and recalls from major companies due to safety concerns related to battery quality and materials [2][3][4]. Industry Response - The Civil Aviation Administration of China issued a notice prohibiting the transport of non-compliant power banks on domestic flights, marking a significant shift in public safety measures [2]. - Major companies like Romoss and Anker have recalled millions of units due to safety risks associated with battery cells and materials [2][3]. Root Causes - The crisis is rooted in price pressures within the industry, where the retail price of power banks has dropped significantly, leading manufacturers to compromise on quality [3][4]. - The use of lower-grade battery cells (B-grade) has become prevalent due to cost-cutting measures, increasing the risk of safety failures [4][5]. Supply Chain Issues - Some companies have reportedly engaged in "unauthorized" changes to core materials, leading to safety risks such as overheating and potential fires [5][6]. - Anker's issues were traced back to a specific supplier, Amprius, which had been implicated in the use of substandard materials [6][7]. Regulatory Changes - The crisis has prompted changes in certification processes for power banks, requiring more stringent testing and compliance measures [14]. - The rising non-compliance rates in power bank products have raised alarms, with failure rates increasing from 19.8% in 2020 to 44.4% in 2023 [9]. Market Impact - The crisis has led to significant disruptions in sales channels, with major brands like Romoss facing product removals from e-commerce platforms [10]. - Logistics companies have halted the collection of recalled products due to safety concerns, complicating the recall process [11]. Consumer Safety Concerns - Multiple incidents of fire and smoke related to power banks on flights have heightened public awareness and regulatory scrutiny [12][13]. - The financial implications of the crisis are substantial, with Anker facing significant costs related to recalls and safety incidents [13]. Industry Reflection - The crisis serves as a warning to the industry about the dangers of price wars and the importance of maintaining product quality to protect brand reputation [14][15]. - Companies are urged to reconsider their supplier selection processes and prioritize safety over cost in order to restore consumer trust [14].
“失控”的充电宝