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The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a serious warning regarding the batteries used in Rad Power Bikes’ electric bicycles, indicating a potential fire hazard that could lead to severe injuries or fatalities.

Overview of the Warning

On Monday, the CPSC alerted consumers about the risks associated with Rad Power Bikes’ e-bike batteries, which have been linked to numerous fire incidents. The agency emphasized that these batteries can “unexpectedly ignite and explode,” particularly when exposed to water or debris that may infiltrate the battery cells or harness. The CPSC has reported a total of 31 fire incidents related to these batteries, which have resulted in property damage estimated at $734,500. Notably, some of these fires occurred even when the batteries were not in use, raising concerns about their safety during storage.

Details of the Affected Models

The CPSC warning encompasses several models of Rad Power Bikes, including:

RadWagon 4
RadCity HS 4
RadRover High Step 5
RadCity Step Thru 3
RadRover Step Thru 1
RadRunner 2
RadRunner 1
RadRunner Plus
RadExpand 5

Consumers can identify the affected batteries by checking for the model numbers (HL-RP-S1304 or RP-1304), which are printed on a label located on the back or rear of the battery. All of these batteries were manufactured in China.

Rad Power Bikes’ Response

In light of the CPSC’s warning, Rad Power Bikes has faced scrutiny regarding its safety protocols and product reliability. The CPSC stated that the company has “refused to agree to an acceptable recall.” Furthermore, Rad Power Bikes has indicated that its current financial situation prevents it from offering replacement batteries or refunds to affected consumers.

Financial Challenges Facing Rad Power Bikes

Rad Power Bikes, based in Seattle, has been one of the leading sellers of e-bikes in North America. However, the company has encountered significant financial difficulties following the post-COVID bike boom. Reports from GeekWire earlier this month highlighted that Rad Power Bikes could face imminent closure unless it secures a cash infusion. This precarious financial state raises questions about the company’s ability to address safety concerns effectively.

Context of E-Bike Battery Fires

The issue of e-bike battery fires is not isolated to Rad Power Bikes. Poorly manufactured lithium-ion batteries have been implicated in numerous deadly fires across the United States and the United Kingdom in recent years. In New York City, where a large number of delivery workers rely on e-bikes, there have been multiple fatalities linked to faulty batteries. This broader context underscores the importance of stringent safety measures in the e-bike industry.

Rad Power Bikes’ Safety Initiatives

Despite the current crisis, Rad Power Bikes has taken steps to enhance battery safety. The company introduced new batteries equipped with thermal-resistant technology designed to mitigate fire risks. This technology involves injecting epoxy resin into the battery cells, which helps prevent chemical reactions that can lead to overheating and potential explosions, a phenomenon known as thermal runaway.

In addition, Rad Power Bikes has transitioned from using 18,650 cells to 21,700 cells for its batteries. The new cells, which measure 21mm in diameter and 70mm in length, are designed to improve safety and performance. The company has also complied with UL safety certification standards for both its bikes and batteries, further indicating its commitment to consumer safety.

Company’s Position on CPSC’s Claims

In a statement regarding the CPSC’s warning, Kelsey Wolf, Rad Power Bikes’ director of brand marketing and communications, expressed strong disagreement with the characterization of its batteries as defective or unsafe. She pointed out that independent tests have confirmed that Rad’s batteries meet industry safety standards, a fact that the CPSC does not dispute.

Incident Rate and Company Commitment

Wolf emphasized that the incident rate associated with the batteries mentioned in the CPSC notice is a fraction of one percent. “While that number is low, we know even one incident is one too many, and we are heartbroken by any report involving our products,” she stated. This acknowledgment reflects the company’s awareness of the potential reputational damage stemming from safety concerns.

Rad Power Bikes has expressed its commitment to collaborating with the CPSC to address the agency’s concerns. The company proposed several “good-faith solutions,” including offering customers an opportunity to upgrade to the new thermal-resistant batteries at a discounted rate. However, the CPSC rejected this proposal, which has left Rad Power Bikes in a difficult position.

Implications for Consumers and the E-Bike Market

The CPSC’s warning and Rad Power Bikes’ financial struggles have significant implications for consumers and the broader e-bike market. For consumers, the immediate concern is safety. Those who own affected models may need to consider whether to continue using their bikes or seek alternatives. The potential for fire hazards raises questions about the reliability of e-bike batteries in general, which could deter some consumers from purchasing e-bikes altogether.

Impact on the E-Bike Industry

The e-bike market has experienced rapid growth in recent years, driven by increased demand for sustainable transportation options. However, incidents involving battery fires could undermine consumer confidence in e-bikes. If safety concerns are not adequately addressed, the industry may face stricter regulations and oversight, which could impact manufacturers and retailers alike.

Moreover, the financial challenges faced by Rad Power Bikes could have a ripple effect throughout the industry. As one of the leading e-bike manufacturers, the company’s struggles may lead to reduced competition and innovation in the market. Other companies may also feel the pressure to enhance their safety measures to avoid similar scrutiny.

Conclusion

The CPSC’s warning about Rad Power Bikes’ batteries serves as a critical reminder of the importance of safety in the e-bike industry. As the market continues to grow, manufacturers must prioritize consumer safety and adhere to rigorous standards to prevent incidents that could lead to injury or loss of life. For Rad Power Bikes, the path forward will require navigating financial challenges while addressing safety concerns to regain consumer trust.

Source: Original report