The Department for Transport (DfT) is considering a proposal to double the permitted power of e-bikes from 250w to 500w, despite concerns over road safety and the risk of more severe battery-caused fires. Critics, including regular e-bike users, have voiced their opposition to the plan, citing the potential dangers. Recent incidents, such as an e-bike explosion on a high street that produced flames hot enough to melt metal, underscore the risks associated with doubling e-bike power. Both BBC News and BBCTech have reported on the potential for severe fires due to the proposed changes.
Plans to double e-bike power 'could cause severe fires' https://t.co/Pt58GXZMbO
Plans to double e-bike power 'could cause severe fires' https://t.co/YdXB1ZVL4R
E-bike explodes on high street 'producing jets of flame hot enough to melt metal' https://t.co/nHCi958aZU
Hi @transportgovuk I’m a very regular user of an electric cargo bike to transport my family. Please don’t double the wattage of electric bike engines, it’s a bad idea! https://t.co/w3WWCdIXeH
NEW: we’ve learned that DfT plans to consult on *doubling* the permitted power of e-bikes (250w to 500w) despite worries about the potential impact on road safety and the potential for more battery-caused fires. https://t.co/7hE3vVyoV6