How the UK and New York are addressing the safety risks of illegal e-bikes and uncertified batteries

Protecting riders and the public: Global efforts to regulate e-bike safety

Ministers in the UK and city officials in New York are taking action to address growing safety risks associated with the rise in illegal and uncertified e-bikes, especially among gig economy delivery workers.

A cross-party parliamentary group in the UK has called on the government to tighten laws and close online loopholes contributing to the sale of high-powered, fire-risk e-bikes.

Meanwhile, the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) has launched a trade-in programme offering certified e-bikes and batteries to delivery workers, aiming to reduce battery fire risks and improve road safety.

All-party group raises concerns over illegal e-bikes

Legal gaps fuelling fire hazards

The Guardian has reported that a cross-party parliamentary group has urged the UK Government to act urgently against illegal e-bikes and conversion kits, particularly those used by gig economy delivery riders.

The group’s report described the problem as “a crisis hiding in plain sight,” warning that illegally modified or non-compliant e-bikes with motors up to 2,000w and speeds over 40mph pose risks both on roads and within buildings due to substandard battery safety.

Fire service data reveals rising incidents

According to London Fire Brigade data cited in the report, fire incidents involving e-bikes or e-scooters rose from 8 in 2019 to 179 in 2023.

Many of the devices, the report said, use multiple batteries not manufactured to UK fire safety standards.

This has led to transport operators and workplaces banning all e-bikes from their premises, affecting even those with legal bikes.

Policy recommendations to tackle sales and safety

The report, chaired by Labour MP Fabian Hamilton, calls for police to be given clearer powers to seize illegal bikes and recommends a scrappage scheme for those used in food delivery, funded by the companies employing the riders.

It also urges changes to online sales rules, closing the “off-road only” loophole, and making online platforms liable for illegal listings.

Hamilton said: “This is a crisis hiding in plain sight. While responsible cycling businesses continue to meet high safety standards, the rise of illegal and unsafe e-bikes, often bought online and used in the gig economy, has created serious risks for riders, the public and the future of active travel.

“We need urgent action from government and industry to stop unsafe products entering the UK and to protect those being exploited while trying to earn a living.”

New York launches certified e-bike trade-in programme

City initiative targets safety and equity

The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT), in partnership with the Fire Department (FDNY), has begun distributing certified e-bikes and batteries to food delivery workers as part of the Charge Safe, Ride Safe: Electric Micromobility Action Plan.

The pilot programme allows eligible workers to trade in uncertified e-bikes or illegal mopeds in exchange for one certified e-bike and two UL-tested batteries.

It was established under Local Law 131 of 2023 and is backed by $2 million in municipal funding.

Reducing fire risk from uncertified equipment

Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez said: “Safer certified e-bikes, batteries, and charging practices will protect all New Yorkers from deadly fires.

“Delivery workers have one of the toughest jobs in New York City and supporting their work is part of our efforts to create a safer, more sustainable future.”

FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker added: “Uncertified lithium-ion batteries are extremely dangerous and even deadly.

“This trade-in programme will protect the public, and our first responders charged with responding to fires caused by these batteries.”

Training, recycling and infrastructure improvements

Participants must complete a safety training course before receiving their equipment.

More than 400 delivery workers are expected to take part in the scheme this summer.

The programme includes responsible disposal and recycling of uncertified devices, multilingual outreach, and infrastructure developments such as widened bike lanes and approved battery-swapping stations.

City Councilmember Keith Powers, who sponsored the legislation, said: “This first of its kind programme is a critical measure to keep New Yorkers safe.

“Fires from unregulated e-bike batteries have already caused too much harm, including tragic loss of life.

“I am proud to have passed this important legislation.”

Community and political support

Worker organisations and lawmakers back safety scheme

State Senator Robert Jackson said: “This is how we legislate equity and build a safer, more just New York – one battery at a time.”

Worker’s Justice Project executive director Ligia Guallpa added: “Today demonstrates what is possible when workers organise for their safety and rights and find true partners in city government willing to demonstrate that centring worker safety can drive cutting-edge innovations to meet transportation needs.”

How the UK and New York are addressing the safety risks of illegal e-bikes and uncertified batteries: Summary

A UK parliamentary group has reported that illegal e-bikes and conversion kits are widely available online and pose safety risks.

UK law allows e-bikes to assist pedalling only up to 15.5mph with a maximum motor power of 250w.

The report found that many e-bikes on sale exceed these limits, with motors of up to 2,000w and speeds of 40mph.

The bikes are frequently used by gig economy delivery workers and are often powered by batteries not meeting UK safety standards.

London Fire Brigade data showed fire incidents involving e-bikes rose from 8 in 2019 to 179 in 2023.

The group called for clearer police powers, a scrappage scheme, and regulation of online listings.

In New York, NYC DOT launched a trade-in programme for delivery workers using uncertified e-bikes.

The programme offers one certified e-bike and two UL-tested batteries per worker.

The scheme was developed under Local Law 131 of 2023.

More than 400 workers are expected to participate in the pilot.

FDNY data linked most battery fires to uncertified batteries not being charged at the time.

Applicants must complete safety training to receive the equipment.

Recycled devices will be disposed of through DOT-led events.

Wider bike lanes and charging infrastructure are also being introduced.