A dangerous e-bike battery linked to a house fire in Surrey has been removed from sale on Amazon, Surrey Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) has confirmed. The fire, which recently broke out in a local home, was traced to an unsafe unit pack power battery from a converted e-bike while it was charging.

According to Matt Perry, fire investigation officer at SFRS, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with substandard e-bike batteries.

Unsafe lithium-ion batteries have been a growing concern in the fire safety industry due to their potential to overheat and ignite, particularly when used in e-bikes and e-scooters. Amanda Poole, assistant director for Trading Standards at Surrey County Council, urged consumers to remain vigilant, advising that all batteries and chargers should comply with UK safety standards.

"Consumers should always check that batteries and chargers meet UK safety regulations and be cautious of cheap or unbranded products sold online," she warned.

Amazon has since reiterated its commitment to customer safety, stating that it requires e-mobility battery sellers to provide documented evidence of compliance with national safety regulations. The company also emphasised that it takes action when necessary, including removing unsafe products, contacting sellers and manufacturers, and liaising with regulatory authorities.

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has been actively raising awareness about fire risks linked to lithium-ion batteries, especially in non-compliant or low-quality products. Fire safety professionals stress the importance of only purchasing batteries and chargers from reputable sources and ensuring that products carry the necessary safety certifications.

With the rise in popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters, ensuring that battery safety is a priority is crucial in preventing similar fire incidents. The FIA strongly encourages individuals and businesses to stay informed about fire safety regulations and best practices when it comes to rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

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