CPSC Warns Consumers to Stop Using Universal E-Bike and E-Scooter Chargers Due to Fire Risks
Aftermarket chargers for micromobility products have led to over one hundred reports of fire or thermal events, including injuries and property damage.
Amid the rising popularity of lithium ion powered scooters, e-bikes and other micromobility devices, federal safety officials are warning about a growing number of thermal events that are being reported by individuals recharging their devices with universal replacement chargers, rather than the power cords supplied with the devices.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued the universal micromobility charger warning on September 5, urging consumers to stop using chargers that are marketed as “universal” for e-bikes, e-scooters, self-balancing scooters (hoverboards) and e-unicycles, indicating that the agency is aware of at least 156 reports of fire and overheating incidents between January 2023 and May 2024.
Universal chargers are marketed as being suitable for general categories of micromobility devices. However, each battery has specific charging needs that require the use of a compatible charger. Chargers marketed as “suitable for all e-bikes” for example, may be incompatible with specific devices, which can cause the battery to ignite and result in a serious fire.
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Learn MoreConsumers Should Also Stop Using SafPow Chargers, CPSC Warns
Alongside the press release warning consumers against using aftermarket chargers for micromobility devices, the CPSC also released a SafPow charger warning the same day. Due to an alarming number of reported problems, the agency is urging consumers to stop using SafPow SPC-42020 and AMPOWSURE ASP-C10S42020 battery chargers for 36-volt lithium battery-powered micromobility products.
The warning highlights that these chargers, when used with incompatible batteries, have caused at least 47 thermal incidents, including fires. These incidents have led to three injuries due to burns and smoke inhalation, along with three cases of property damage totaling $100,200. Consumers are strongly urged to cease using these chargers immediately and safely dispose of them.
These SafPow chargers are black and display either the “SafPow” brand with model number “SPC-42020,” or the “AMPOWSURE” brand with model number “ASP-C10S42020” on a label. The impacted chargers were sold on Amazon.com and eBay.com since January 2021, with prices ranging from $10 to $31.
CPSC indicates that consumers should only use chargers that have been tested and approved to work safely with a specific device. If consumers do not have the original charger provided with their device, they should contact the manufacturer for information about a replacement charger.
Recommendations to lower the risk of a fire when charging scooters, e-bikes or other battery operated products include:
- Do not use a charger that came from another micromobility device without confirming compatibility.
- Unplug the charger from the device when the charge cycle is complete, and avoid leaving it plugged in for extended periods.
- Always supervise products while they are charging, and never charge them while you are sleeping.
Adhere to the manufactures guidance on how often to charge your battery if you are not using the device regularly.
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