UK Ebike and E-Scooter Fires Surge to Record Levels in 2025
Fires involving electric bicycles and e-scooters have reached unprecedented highs in the United Kingdom, according to recent data. In 2025, authorities recorded at least 432 ebike fires and 147 e-scooter fires, representing alarming increases of 38 percent and 20 percent, respectively, compared to the previous year.
Data Sources and Expert Warnings
The statistics were obtained through freedom of information requests submitted to the UK's 49 fire brigades, with 37 providing responses. Nick Bailey from BatteryIQ, a company specializing in monitoring ebike battery safety, highlighted that the fires typically involve cut-price products sold through online marketplaces with lax quality control.
Bailey explained, "There's also a growing black market in DIY and counterfeit batteries, particularly for delivery riders, built using battery cells reclaimed from used disposable vapes." He added a personal caution, stating he would not keep any battery at home without continuous monitoring, regardless of manufacturer assurances.
Safety Concerns from Industry Leaders
Lesley Rudd, chief executive of the charity Electrical Safety First, expressed serious concerns about poorly made batteries and accessories entering homes via under-regulated online platforms. "Without strong and enforceable changes, lives are at serious risk and further loss of life is sadly inevitable," she warned.
Spencer Sutcliff, a deputy commissioner with the London Fire Brigade, confirmed the brigade's extreme concern about these fires and their devastating impact on lives and livelihoods. Firefighters continue to respond to a worrying number of such incidents.
Consumer Protection and Regulatory Response
Sue Davies, head of consumer rights policy at Which?, noted that online marketplaces are increasingly saturated with unsafe products. "Ebikes and e-scooters are just some examples of items that can pose serious risks to consumers while also undercutting responsible businesses that comply with the law," she said.
The government has launched a consultation on updating the product safety framework, including potential duties for online marketplaces to prevent unsafe products from being sold by third-party sellers. Davies emphasized that these duties must be strong and enforceable, with clear measures to protect consumers and reduce fire risks.
