Riders of electric bicycles in England are set to face stricter safety regulations under a major new industry-led initiative launching next year. The move aims to tackle the growing risks associated with illegal and unsafe e-bikes, which have been linked to a record number of devastating fires.
Industry Takes Control of Safety Drive
From 1 January 2026, the Bicycle Association and the Association of Cycle Traders (ACT) will jointly assume control of the E-Bike Positive scheme. This campaign is designed to be a central framework for promoting safe and legal electric bikes across the UK. The handover marks a significant step in consolidating cross-industry efforts.
Steve Garidis, Executive Director of the Bicycle Association, expressed his organisation's commitment. He stated that the E-Bike Positive campaign is the perfect platform to unite the essential work needed across the sector. His counterpart, Jonathan Harrison, Director of the ACT, thanked the retailers who have already pledged to follow the scheme's best practices, calling this transition the "next chapter" after two years of development.
The scheme has already garnered significant support from the trade. Approximately 400 UK electric bicycle vendors have committed to the programme, promising to only sell and service e-bikes that meet legal standards.
Urgent Warnings on Fire Risks and Legal Compliance
The regulatory push comes alongside stark warnings from emergency services. London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith reported that his service has dealt with a record number of fires caused by e-bikes or e-scooters this year. He described these blazes as having "devastating consequences," noting they are fast, explosive, toxic, and can be fatal. He urged the public to exercise extreme caution when purchasing these items.
Clarifying the law for riders, Sussex Police Road Safety Manager Mark Baker outlined the strict criteria for a legal Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC). To be used on public roads and cycle paths, an e-bike must have functional pedals, a motor with a maximum power output of 250 watts, and must not provide assistance beyond 15.5 miles per hour. Crucially, the motor must not be able to start without pedalling, ensuring the bike behaves like a traditional bicycle.
Baker warned that riding an e-bike which does not meet the EAPC standard without proper registration and insurance can lead to a fine, penalty points on a driving licence, and the vehicle being seized by authorities.
A Collective Effort for Consumer Safety
The initiative is seen as a vital collaborative effort. Chris Astle, UK Marketing Manager for Bosch eBike Systems, which initially developed the campaign, said the goal was always to hand it over to the wider UK cycling industry. This collective control is intended to safeguard the market's future. Astle emphasised that educating consumers on critical issues like battery safety remains an imperative and serious ongoing commitment for all involved.
This collaborative approach extends to enforcement and education on the ground. Mark Baker highlighted that working with local councils and fire services, such as Brighton & Hove City Council and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, enables more effective, targeted road safety interventions.
The introduction of these tougher regulations and the consolidated E-Bike Positive scheme from January 2026 represents a decisive industry and regulatory response to growing safety concerns, aiming to protect riders, the public, and the reputation of sustainable transport.
