Almost double number of electric vehicle fires reported over the past two years

Soaring Lithium-ion Battery Fires in Electric Vehicles and E-bikes Concern UK Authorities

Almost double number of electric vehicle fires reported over the past two years

Lithium-ion battery fires associated with electric vehicles (EVs) and e-bikes have seen a dramatic 93% rise over the past two years, according to a new report from QBE Insurance [1]. This disturbing trend has resulted in UK fire brigades responding to approximately three battery fires per day as these electric modes of transport increasingly become commonplace on the nation's streets.

Last year, e-bike fires alone numbered 362, double the figure from 2022, making them the predominant cause of lithium-ion battery fires in the UK [1]. Unfortunately, the number of electric car blazes also increased by 77% during the same period [1].

Despite the rise in electric cars on UK roads surpassing the million mark in 2024, QBE Insurance considers the risk posed by EV fires substantial due to their intense fire spread, fast ignition, and rapid expansion caused by lithium-ion batteries [2].

In light of the growing concerns about e-transport fires, Adrian Simmonds from QBE Insurance sounded the alarm, stating that instances of fires are "increasing at a worrying pace" [2]. He highlighted that these fires are often more harmful to the environment, burn longer, require ten times more water to extinguish, and differ in their properties compared to conventional fires [2].

Lithium-ion Battery Fires: The Rise of Electrified Transport

Lithium-ion batteries are widely employed in rechargeable devices, such as smartphones, laptops, power tools, and e-vehicles [3]. However, it is e-bikes, in particular, that have garnered unwanted attention due to the spike in lithium-ion battery fires in the UK.

E-bikes accounted for nearly one-third (27%) of all recorded lithium-ion battery fires in 2024, with London being the epicenter for such blazes [3]. The city is home to over 40,000 e-bikes for hire, with Forest bikes and Lime bikes among the most popular choices [3]. London's Transport for London (TfL) also plans to expand its fleet of 'Boris bikes' to include 2,000 e-bikes by the end of summer [3].

The report further revealed that electric car fires amounted to 232 cases in 2024, while e-scooter battery fires accounted for 156 cases during the same period [1]. Although electric mobility scooters have lower combustion rates, with incidents rising by 20% in the last two years, the threat to their users, especially those with limited mobility, is heightened due to the potential difficulties in rapid evacuation during a fire [1].

Mitigation and Regulatory Measures

Responding to the increasing danger posed by lithium-ion battery fires, the UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT) introduced the 'Buy Safe, Be Safe' campaign in October 2024 [2]. The initiative aims to protect consumers from rogue online sellers and encourages them to prioritize safe purchases.

Additionally, the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill, currently under parliamentary review, seeks to strengthen safety standards for products sold in the UK [2]. This legislation, if passed, could lead to improvements in lithium-ion battery safety and help ensure that consumers purchase reliable and compliant e-transport devices.

As e-transport becomes more prevalent and EV adoption continues, QBE Insurance calls for increased public education on safe battery usage and fire prevention, as well as stricter regulations in the sale of unregulated devices [2].

Lithium-ion Battery Safety: Tips for Home Users

To ensure safety at home, QBE offers these recommendations:

1. Buy certified devices from reputable retailers
2. Check for battery damage after accidents or impacts
3. Use only the original charger provided with the device
4. Plug into outlets with circuit breakers
5. Charge in well-ventilated, outdoor areas away from combustible sources
6. Avoid charging in escape routes like hallway for apartments
7. Install smoke or heat detectors where devices are charged
8. Don't charge unattended or while sleeping
9. Unplug devices when charging is complete

By following these safety recommendations and demanding improved lithium-ion battery safety regulations, consumers can help minimize the risk of fires involving their e-vehicles and other battery-powered devices.

References

1. "Lithium-ion battery fires due to e-vehicles surge by 93%" (link).
2. "Electric vehicle lithium-ion battery fires create growing concern" (link).
3. "The rising number of lithium-ion battery fires due to e-vehicles" (link).
4. Given the rise in lithium-ion battery fires in electric vehicles (EVs) and e-bikes, it might be beneficial for property owners to consider purchasing comprehensive insurance policies that cover such incidents.
5. As the number of electric cars on UK roads continues to increase, it is crucial for technology developers to focus on improving the safety of lithium-ion batteries used in electric-vehicles to reduce the risk of fires.
6. With electric-vehicles becoming more popular, promoting a lifestyle that includes responsible charging practices and regular battery maintenance could contribute to a decrease in lithium-ion battery fires, thereby ensuring the safety of car owners and the environment.

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