EBay Introduces Restrictions on E-Bike and E-Bike Battery Sales in the UK

October 9, 2024 TruthUSA

Lithium-ion batteries, a popular choice among e-bike users, have the potential to cause fires when overheated.

The e-commerce giant eBay has announced that it will restrict the sale of e-bikes and e-bike batteries on its UK platform starting from Oct. 31.

Following the implementation of these changes, only “eligible business sellers” will have the authorization to list e-bikes and their corresponding batteries.

Ensuring consumer safety is a top priority for eBay, as stated by a company spokeswoman.

“To further enhance consumer safety on our platform, starting from October 31, 2024, only eligible business sellers will be permitted to list e-bikes and e-bike batteries for sale in the UK.

This policy adjustment complements the CE audits of listings offering e-bike batteries initiated last year, where we verify that the products sellers are offering possess valid CE documentation,” she mentioned in a statement.

E-bikes are powered by various types of batteries, with lithium-ion batteries being a favored choice due to their lightweight nature and extended lifespan.

When lithium-ion batteries overheat, they often lead to fires that can spread quickly. UK fire brigade authorities have previously cautioned about the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.

London Fire Brigade (LFB) Deputy Assistant Commissioner Richard Field explained that these batteries emit toxic and flammable gases that can be challenging to extinguish.

“When these batteries and chargers fail, they do so with intensity. These fires often escalate rapidly,” he informed The Epoch Times.

LFB guidance emphasizes that while e-bikes are a popular mode of transportation, users must be mindful of the risks they carry.

The majority of e-bike fires occur in shared spaces or escape routes, obstructing fire exits during emergencies.

The eBay update coincides with warnings that several fires are caused by incompatible chargers and substandard or counterfeit products obtained online. This includes lithium batteries and e-bike conversion kits, as stated by the LFB.

“Purchasing batteries online that do not comply with UK safety standards increases the likelihood of failure and fire incidents. Acquiring second-hand batteries may mean acquiring a damaged and hazardous fire-prone battery,” LFB cautioned.

Improper DIY installations can also result in kit damage, heightening the risk of battery failure and fire occurrence.

Risk and Regulation

Official figures reveal an average of one fire caused by a lithium battery in an e-bike or e-scooter occurring every two days in London in 2023.

In July, a tragic incident claimed the lives of a woman and two young children due to a fire, attributed to an e-bike. Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service indicated that they suspected the fire to be accidental, likely ignited by a charging e-bike.

A representative from charity Electrical Safety First commended eBay’s new policy and advocated for stricter market regulations.

“We appreciate eBay’s proactive measures in reducing the infiltration of substandard batteries into homes, presenting a serious fire hazard upon failure.

“While this voluntary action is commendable, we urge online marketplaces to be legally mandated to ensure the safety of products sold on their platforms. We hope that the impending Product Regulation and Metrology Bill will enforce this obligation.

“This legislation should incorporate mandatory third-party certification for e-bikes, e-scooters, and their batteries to prevent inferior products from entering the market. Additionally, it should introduce more stringent standards for conversion kits and charging regulations,” the spokesperson conveyed to The Epoch Times via email.

Chris Summers and PA Media contributed to this report.

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