Full Breakdown
E-bike and E-scooter Battery Fires Linked to 18 Deaths in the United Kingdom
8/28/2026, 11:25:15 AM
Background & Context
Since 2019, the rapid growth of electric bicycles and scooters has been accompanied by an increasing number of fire incidents. Freedom of Information requests to all 49 UK fire and rescue services (with responses from 41) revealed that many of the fires involved second-hand vehicles or devices that had been modified with parts purchased online. The data excludes clear arson cases and incidents involving mobility scooters.
Data & Statistics
- More than 2,000 fires involving e-bikes, e-scooters or their batteries were recorded between 2019 and 2025.
- Fatalities total 18, with nearly 700 people injured.
- Annual incidents rose from 32 in 2019 to 605 in 2025.
- Approximately half of the fires started in homes or garages.
- Geographic distribution shows London with 793 incidents, Manchester 128, West Yorkshire 93, Merseyside 74 and Avon 73.
Official Statements & Responses
She noted investigations frequently found second-hand or modified devices and urged consumers to be careful about where they purchase e-bikes and e-scooters.
Dr Simon Jones of the University of Warwick explained that faulty, over-charged or damaged lithium-ion batteries can release stored energy rapidly, producing flame jets and burning projectiles that create fast-spreading fires, block escape routes and emit toxic fumes.
The UK government’s guidance warns that risk rises when products lack safety markings, are damaged, modified, or used with incompatible chargers. It is strengthening responsibilities for online marketplaces, collaborating with local authorities to remove unsafe products, and promoting the “Buy Safe, Be Safe” campaign.
Why It Matters
The combination of high-energy lithium-ion batteries and unregulated modifications creates a fire hazard that can trap occupants, cause severe injuries, and generate hazardous smoke. The rising trend underscores the need for stricter product standards, clearer consumer information, and more robust enforcement of safety markings to protect public health and property.
What's Next
Authorities plan to continue working with online retailers and local councils to eliminate unsafe e-bike and e-scooter products from the market, while public safety campaigns aim to raise awareness of proper purchasing and charging practices.
