From the OPSS:  In 2023, the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) commissioned Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) to conduct independent research into product safety risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, chargers and conversion kits when used with e-bikes and e-scooters.

OPSS has now published the resulting research which provides a significant step forward in our understanding of the complex issues relating to these products and strengthens the evidence base. The research explores: 

How battery failures occur during real-world use and environments, including scenarios of foreseeable misuse or modification  

The types of processes and materials used in product manufacture that achieve safer design and safer use of lithium-ion batteries 

Potential shortcomings in technical requirements in product standards that have not kept pace with technological innovation 
 

Tackling the rise in fires related to e-Bikes and e-Scooters is a priority for Government. OPSS is continually assessing the most effective regulatory interventions to implement to tackle this problem. We are now considering the suggestions made within the report and look forward to working with stakeholders to protect people and places from the dangers associated with these products. 

The research report and an update on OPSS e-Bike and e-Scooter safety activity can be found here:

Gov research into e-bike battery safety
Gov research into personal light vehicle batteries

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