In a recent exclusive interview with an eBay representative, it was announced that the online marketplace will be implementing strict new measures for the sale of e-bikes and e-bike batteries in the UK, starting October 31. The spokesperson indicated that after this date, only “eligible business sellers” will be allowed to list these items, although specific eligibility criteria have yet to be revealed.
As e-bikes—equipped with electrically-assisted pedals and powered by batteries—grow in popularity, safety concerns are on the rise. The London Fire Brigade has reported a staggering 155 e-bike fires in 2023, reflecting a 78% increase from the previous year. This alarming trend has led the Brigade to advise users to carefully inspect their batteries, particularly after the UK’s regulatory authority classified certain battery packs as “dangerous” products.
In June, a coroner highlighted the urgent need for government intervention following a tragic incident in which a man lost his home to a fire triggered by an overheated e-bike battery while it was charging.
When discussing eBay’s dedication to consumer safety, the representative emphasized, “Consumer safety is a top priority for eBay.” Earlier this year, the company also announced plans to audit sellers to ensure they have the necessary CE mark for safety documentation related to e-bike products.
Currently, eBay lists nearly 3,000 used e-bikes available for purchase in the UK. Electrical Safety First, a charity dedicated to promoting electrical safety, has expressed support for eBay’s new policy, but also stressed the importance of additional legislation to tackle fire safety risks associated with e-bikes. A spokesperson for the charity remarked, “While this voluntary move is welcome, we continue to call for online marketplaces to be legally obligated to take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of the products sold on their sites.”
Interestingly, the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill, which is currently under discussion in Parliament, could set the stage for such legal obligations in the future.
