What’s Next for Lithium-Ion Battery Transport Regulations?

The recent release of the SAE G27 lithium battery packaging standard marks a significant step toward safer battery transport. However, this is just the beginning. The question now is: What’s next for lithium battery transport regulations? In this article, we’ll explore the future of these regulations, upcoming industry changes, and how businesses can prepare.

How the G27 Standard Will Be Applied

With the publication of the first G27 standard, regulatory bodies, industry stakeholders, and manufacturers are evaluating its implementation. Key developments include:

• • Regulatory Considerations – ICAO and FAA are reviewing how to integrate G27 testing methods into formal air transport regulations.
• • Industry Adoption – Battery and packaging manufacturers are aligning their products with the standard.
• • Voluntary Compliance – Early adopters may leverage the G27 standard to demonstrate best-in-class safety measures ahead of potential mandates.

Expanding the Standard: What’s Left to Be Done?

While the first release of the G27 standard addresses cylindrical lithium-ion cells, it does not yet cover:

• • Pouch and prismatic cells – Other common battery formats require additional testing.
• • Primary (non-rechargeable) batteries – Transport safety measures for these batteries remain under discussion.
• • Larger battery packs – Used in electric vehicles and industrial applications, these require new containment strategies.

Future updates to the G27 standard will likely include slash sheets that expand the scope to cover these additional battery types.

Timeline for Adoption and Future Regulations

While regulatory changes take time, the process is already underway. Expected developments include:

• • Short-term (2025-2026) – Industry voluntary adoption and regulatory evaluation.
• • Mid-term (2027-2028) – ICAO and FAA may incorporate G27 testing as a required standard.
• • Long-term (2029 and beyond) – Further refinements based on real-world data and testing improvements.

How This Affects Battery Manufacturers and Distributors

Businesses handling lithium-ion batteries should prepare for upcoming regulations by:

• • Updating packaging – Ensuring compliance with evolving containment requirements.
• • Adopting standardized testing – Implementing G27-approved test methods.
• • Monitoring regulatory changes – Staying ahead of new transport restrictions and approvals.

Early compliance can help companies avoid future disruptions and maintain a competitive advantage.

Final Thoughts

The SAE G27 standard is a major step forward, but the evolution of lithium-ion battery transport regulations is ongoing. Expanding the standard to cover more battery types, gaining regulatory approval, and ensuring industry-wide adoption will be key milestones in the years ahead.

As the industry adapts, businesses that stay informed and proactive will be best positioned for success in an increasingly regulated transport landscape.