Should I be worried about electric bike fires?

There has been a good deal of press coverage about the risk of electric bikes catching fire. Tragically a number of deaths have been linked to ebike fires and they are now seen as a major risk by fire brigades. However, as a recent report by campaign group Electrical Safety First has highlighted, these fires tend to happen in specific circumstances. They are very often linked to ebike conversion kits, cheap replacement chargers and ‘twist and go’ ebikes which are not road legal.

The Rise of Electric Bikes

Electric bikes have rapidly gained popularity. They provide an efficient means of transportation, allowing riders to cover longer distances with less effort. Ebikes are also environmentally friendly, contributing to reduced air pollution. Their rising demand has led to technological advancements from major bike brands, but also a wave of cheaper imitators who don’t always have safety as their first concern.

Understanding the Risk: Why Do Ebikes Catch Fire?

Electric bike fires primarily stem from issues related to the lithium-ion batteries used to power them. These compact, high-energy-density batteries have become integral to modern electronics, including smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles. However, they are not without their drawbacks. When not properly manufactured, handled, or maintained, lithium-ion batteries can pose serious risks, including thermal runaway and combustion.

Electrical: incompatibility between battery and charger, or a faulty/sub-standard battery management system (BMS). Cheap replacement chargers which can be bought online are highlighted as a particular risk.

Mechanical: triggered by crushing or penetration of a battery with an external object. Can also be caused by extreme or repeated impact.

Thermal: extreme high and low temperature environments.

Mitigating the Risks: Safety Measures and Precautions

There are some simple safety measures and precautions that can help mitigate the risks associated with ebike fires:

Choose Reputable Brands: Opt for ebikes from well-established manufacturers known for their commitment to quality and safety standards. Our most popular ebikes use motors and batteries from well established brands such as Bosch and Shimano.

Proper Charging: Follow manufacturer guidelines for charging, use only compatible chargers, and avoid leaving the bike plugged in overnight or unattended.

Regular Maintenance: Inspect the battery, wiring, and connectors for signs of damage. Replace any damaged components promptly. Having your bike regularly serviced can help identify problems. We can also check that the firmware and management system for your bike is up to date.

Storage and Temperature: Store ebikes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Avoid Impact: Handle your ebike carefully and avoid impacts or punctures to the battery casing.

Avoid conversion kits: These are seen as a particularly high risk for fires.

In Conclusion

While electric bikes offer a myriad of benefits, including reduced carbon emissions and increased mobility, it's essential to be aware of the potential risk of fires associated with their lithium-ion batteries. Buying a bike from a reputable brand, keeping it well maintained and only using the proper charger will all help reduce this risk and keep you and your bike safe.