Warning ‘incompatible’ e-bike chargers could spark deadly fires as owners unable to escape

E-bike owners have been warned using incompatible chargers could result in batteries bursting into flames. The Electrical Safety First charity says some users may not be aware of the dangers. If the charger is compatible with the battery there is little risk.

However, when incompatible chargers are used, they risk supplying the battery with too much voltage. Electrical Safety First said this can damage the cells and cause a catastrophic process called thermal runaway, where the battery goes into an uncontrollable self-heating chemical reaction – characterised by ferocious fires that can destroy a room in minutes. The charity is now calling for a ban on universal chargers for e-bike and e-scooter batteries, where a charger comes with multiple outlets to connect to various batteries.

It also wants clearer markings on batteries to specify what voltage a charger should be. The findings come as the charity releases its new report, Battery Breakdown , looking at ways to stem the spate of deadly fires across the country that have been caused by e-bike and e-scooter batteries. A new video released as part of the report simulates an overcharge situation, causing a fire.

Toxic white smoke can be seen pouring from the battery at first, which can be incredibly harmful if inhaled. Seconds later, the battery is consumed in flames. Giuseppe Capanna, Product Safety Engineer of Electrical Safety First , said “Incorrectly charging your e-bike or e-scooter battery comes at a dangerous cost.

Due to the large amount of energy stored in these batteries, the risk of fire is significantly higher if the battery becomes unstable. “It’s essential that you use a compatible charger, ideally the one that came with the device and never block any exit ways when charging, the results could be fatal. ” Electrical Safety First said research also showed that many e-bike and e-scooter owners are charging their devices in areas that risk compromising escape routes.

Of those surveyed, 44% admitted to charging their device in a communal area of the property they live in, such as a hallway or staircase, that is not inside their immediate home. If an e-bike or e-scooter battery fails a catastrophic fire can occur in seconds – risking blocking an escape route if this happens near an exit. Subscribe here for the latest news where you live More than half (52%) of e-bike and e-scooter owners surveyed said they charge their device overnight when they are sleeping, leaving them with little time to respond in the event of a fire.

More than a quarter (28%) admitted to charging their device in their hallway inside their home, with more than one in ten (14%) saying they charge it in their bedroom. The charity recommends charging a device away from any vital exit routes and where possible for some, an outhouse may be the safest alternative. The charity previously presented research showing highly dangerous e-bike and e-scooter chargers for sale via online marketplaces, lacking a fuse and presenting a risk of fire.

It says consumers should buy their e-bike, e-scooter and compatible charger from a reputable manufacturer or retailer. .