UK Government issues renewed warning on dangerous UPP e-bike batteries
Posted on in Business News , Cycles News
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued a fresh warning about the dangers of UPP e-bike batteries, urging consumers to stop using them immediately.
The OPSS has shared a reminder that certain models of UPP batteries, linked to multiple serious fires, pose a significant risk of explosion and rapid fire spread, which could result in severe injury or even death.
The specific models affected are the Unit Pack Power (UPP) U004 and U004-1, which OPSS has identified as hazardous, with retailers and consumers advised to check their e-bikes, particularly second-hand models or those converted from regular bicycles, to ensure they do not contain the batteries.
The reminder follows a previous warning from OPSS in January 2024, when it took action to have the UPP batteries removed from online marketplaces. Despite these efforts, unsafe batteries remain in circulation, putting consumers at serious risk.
Graham Russell, Chief Executive of OPSS, said: "Unsafe e-bike batteries are still in use around the country. When they are being charged, they can catch fire with horrific force, threatening the lives of those who use them, their families and their neighbours.
“While OPSS takes action to remove these wherever we can, it is vital that consumers are aware of the risks and that they check that their own e-bike, or any e-bike they see for sale online, does not contain these UPP batteries. If anyone finds one, don’t use it and contact the seller."
The Government has reiterated the importance of only buying e-bikes from reputable sellers and replacing parts with those recommended by the manufacturer, while consumers converting or repairing e-bikes are also encouraged to seek professional assistance to avoid safety hazards.
The ACT is encouraging our members and any other independent cycling retailers to help raise awareness by spreading the OPSS warning on the specific UPP e-bike batteries through their communication channels and consumer groups.
With continued circulation of dangerous UPP batteries, it is essential to ensure as many people as possible are informed of the risks of these batteries and are aware of how to buy, use and work on e-bikes safely.
Further guidance on reducing e-bike fire risks, including a safety checklist, is available from the Government guidance here.
The e-Bike Positive campaign, launched last year by the ACT and other key cycling organisations, aims to promote the positive aspects of e-bike usage and to ensure fair and accurate reporting of e-bike-related news. To find out more, click here.
You can join our list of e-bike positive retailers by signing our pledge here.