Fires linked to lithium-ion batteries in ebikes are rising, prompting the London Fire Brigade to call for urgent legislative action.
In 2025 alone, firefighters attended more than 200 incidents involving ebikes and escooters across London. The majority involved ebikes. These fires have resulted in serious property damage, injuries and, in some cases, fatalities. The scale and frequency of incidents indicate a systemic safety issue rather than isolated events.
Many of these fires are associated with battery failure. Poorly manufactured batteries, incompatible chargers and aftermarket conversion kits significantly increase the risk of overheating and ignition. Lithium ion battery fires can escalate rapidly and are difficult to extinguish once established. In residential buildings, particularly high rise properties or shared accommodation, the consequences can be severe.
Why Regulation is Important
The UK Government has introduced the Product Regulation and Metrology Act, which received Royal Assent last summer to strengthen consumer product safety. However, detailed secondary legislation is required to set clear and enforceable standards for lithium ion batteries and associated equipment.
The London Fire Brigade has made clear that progress on this secondary legislation must be accelerated. Without robust standards governing manufacture, import and sale, unsafe products can continue to enter the market and reach consumers.
It comes on the back of its #ChargeSafe campaign, designed to increase awareness of the risks associated with owning a poorly built e-bike or e-scooter lithium-ion battery.
Says Richard Parker, Amthal Group Sales Director: “This is not a challenge to sustainable transport. Ebikes remain an important part of the transition to lower carbon mobility. The issue is product safety and risk management. Effective regulation provides clarity for all of us, including retailers and consumers while reducing preventable harm.”
Supporting New Legislation
The growth in battery related fires highlights the need to review and strengthen current safety frameworks. Clearer standards for batteries, charging equipment and conversion kits would support safer adoption of ebikes across the UK.
Amthal is working to raise awareness of the importance of ebike safety. We support the need for clear, enforceable standards combined with improved awareness to reduce incidents and protect residents, properties and communities.
Addressing this issue now will help ensure the continued growth of electric mobility is underpinned by appropriate safety controls and accountability.
