Warnings About Dangerous UPP E-Bike Batteries Resurface

A hazardous e-bike battery, previously banned by the government, has been spotted for sale on Facebook Marketplace. Households are being urged to steer clear of the UPP (Unit Pack Power) branded e-bike battery due to its significant fire and explosion risks.

The government issued a withdrawal notice to platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Alibaba back in February 2024, cautioning that failures of these batteries could lead to “potentially fatal consequences.”

As a result, the dangerous triangular-shaped UPP e-bike battery was no longer available on these major online retailers. However, The Independent reports that these risky models have resurfaced in private sales on Facebook Marketplace.

While Meta, the parent company of Facebook, confirmed that many listings were removed, reports indicate that several listings for models U004 and U004-1 remain active. The batteries were spotted for sale in various locations, including Greater Manchester, Greater London, Hull, Derbyshire, Southampton, and Reading.

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Experts from Electrical Safety First have raised alarms regarding these batteries, as they are known for experiencing thermal runaway. This potentially leads them to reach temperatures of 600°C, releasing toxic gases and igniting fires that are extremely difficult to extinguish.

“A single unit of this affected battery being sold online could put a household at serious risk,” stated Giuseppe Capanna, a product safety engineer at Electrical Safety First.

Capanna emphasizes the importance of online sellers in ensuring that they are not inadvertently distributing dangerous e-bike batteries. He highlighted that the current regulations governing online marketplaces and protecting consumers from hazardous products are inadequate.

The government is actively addressing these safety concerns, with the Product Regulation & Metrology Bill currently moving through the House of Commons. A spokesperson for the Department for Business and Trade reiterated their commitment, stating, “it is an offense to sell a product that is known to be unsafe.”

Consumers are encouraged to check their e-bike batteries carefully and to report any listings or sales of these hazardous UPP batteries to the Office for Product Safety and Standards.

Warning Issued Over Dangerous E-Bike Batteries for Sale

Recent reports indicate that a type of e-bike battery, previously flagged by safety authorities, has resurfaced on online marketplaces, raising concerns about potential fire hazards. Households are being strongly advised against purchasing UPP (Unit Pack Power) branded e-bike batteries, which pose significant risks of fire and explosion.

The Threat of UPP E-Bike Batteries

These triangular-shaped batteries have been linked to incidents of thermal runaway, a dangerous condition where the temperature can surge up to 600°C. This phenomenon can release toxic gases and ignite uncontrollable fires, posing alarming threats to users and their surrounding environments. The situation has warranted urgent action from governmental bodies.

Government Response to Unsafe Products

In February 2024, the government issued a mandatory withdrawal directive to various online retailers, including major platforms like Amazon and eBay. They highlighted the dire consequences that could arise from using the faulty batteries, emphasizing that they should not be available for sale. Despite this precaution, new listings have surfaced on social media marketplaces, insisting that users remain vigilant.

Reports of Continued Sales

It has come to light that several posts advertising the hazardous U004 and U004-1 e-bike battery models were still present on Facebook Marketplace. Reports from various regions, including Greater Manchester and London, indicate that these dangerous products are still being marketed, raising alarms about online safety practices.

Consumer Safety in Question

Electrical Safety First, a prominent charity, has flagged the issue, urging consumers to actively examine the batteries in their e-bikes. A concerning instance involved a seller creating a listing for a battery described as “a little bit burnt,” a clear indication of its hazardous nature. Such listings increase the risk of accidents and potential harm to households.

Expert Opinions on the Matter

Experts in product safety, including Graham Russell from the Office for Product Safety and Standards, highlight the persistent presence of unsafe e-bike batteries in circulation. Russell urges consumers to verify that their e-bike batteries are not UPP models and to report any sales of these dangerous products promptly.

The Call for Better Regulations

Giuseppe Capanna, a safety engineer, stresses the importance of rigorous seller accountability on online platforms. He highlights that a single unit of this hazardous battery could compromise a household’s safety, necessitating proactive engagement from online marketplaces to prevent the sale of dangerous goods. Current regulations surrounding online product safety are under scrutiny, with legislative action expected in response to these ongoing concerns.

Conclusion: Staying Informed

The evolving situation underscores the critical nature of remaining informed about the products we purchase online. As the government and safety organizations work to tighten regulations, consumers must take personal responsibility to ensure their safety. Always check for known hazardous products like UPP e-bike batteries, and report any suspicious listings to relevant authorities.