Last year, a program worth $2 million was launched in New York City where delivery workers who owned e-bikes without UL certification could exchange them for new UL-certified e-bikes, provided they also traded in the batteries. The reason for this initiative was the significant increase in e-bike and e-scooter fires in NYC due to their growing popularity.
There are currently two e-bike models that consumers should be cautious of due to fire and burn risks.
The FENGQS F7 Pro E-bikes with batteries manufactured on April 21, 2024, are being recalled because the lithium-ion battery can overheat and catch fire, posing a serious hazard to users. FENGQS has received reports of 13 e-bikes igniting, resulting in two fires causing $4,000 in property damage. Owners of these e-bikes should immediately stop using them and contact FENGQS for a full refund. Only about 100 units are affected by this recall.
Consumers will need to write their name, the word “recalled,” and the current date next to the battery’s production date using a permanent marker. They must then send a photo to [email protected] showing this information and confirm proper disposal of the battery as per regulations.
The second recall is much larger and involves all VIVI e-bikes using 36-volt lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are being recalled due to overheating issues, posing fire and burn risks. Approximately 24,000 units are affected by this recall.
Consumers should stop using e-bikes with the recalled lithium-ion batteries immediately and contact VIVI to receive a free replacement battery and charger. The recalled battery must be disposed of at a household hazardous waste collection center or following municipal guidelines, with confirmation sent to [email protected].
Both of the mentioned e-bike models were manufactured in China.