UK MPs Call for Stricter Controls on eBike and Charger Sales by Amazon and eBay

In a significant move highlighting safety concerns, Members of Parliament (MPs) in the United Kingdom are urging major online marketplaces, Amazon and eBay, to enhance their regulatory frameworks regarding the sale of electric bikes (eBikes) and their chargers. This call comes after investigations revealed that these platforms were offering products that violate legal power and speed limits, thus posing potential safety risks to consumers.

The issue came to light following a report from the UK government’s Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), which identified specific eBike models, particularly from the Chinese brand Ridstar, as hazardous due to substandard electrical components that could lead to fire risks. Despite a government prohibition on the sale of these models in the UK, they were still accessible to consumers online, raising alarms among lawmakers.

Fabian Hamilton and Olly Glover, the chair and vice-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Cycling and Walking, respectively, have formally addressed Amazon’s UK head, John Boumphrey, in a letter urging immediate action. They stressed that the Ridstar bikes still listed on Amazon likely share the same safety flaws that led to their prohibition. The MPs also requested that both Amazon and eBay institute more rigorous verification processes to filter out dangerous or illegal products, as well as to adopt a national quality-assurance Kitemark to help consumers identify safe eBike options.

The MPs' concerns are particularly pressing as they noted the presence of over 1,400 secondhand eBikes on eBay, sold by private sellers, in apparent violation of the platform’s own policies. eBay has not confirmed this figure but is under scrutiny for its adherence to safety regulations. In response to inquiries from The Guardian, eBay stated it had removed several listings flagged for safety violations and is actively working to identify further non-compliant items.

In their letters, Hamilton and Glover emphasized that the sale of illegal and potentially dangerous eBikes represents 'a crisis hiding in plain sight'. They highlighted that, under UK law, eBikes are permitted to utilize electric assistance only up to a speed of 15.5 mph and a power output of 250 watts. However, the availability of more powerful models online complicates compliance and enforcement efforts.

Following the MPs’ intervention, Amazon confirmed that the problematic Ridstar model had been taken down from its platform. A spokesperson for Amazon reiterated the company's commitment to consumer safety, stating, 'We require all products offered in our store to comply with applicable laws and regulations.' They added that their monitoring protocols include requiring sellers of e-mobility products to provide testing certifications from accredited laboratories. Amazon also collaborates with the London Fire Brigade to educate customers on safe usage practices for eBikes and e-scooters.

Similarly, eBay emphasized its dedication to consumer safety, stating that it only allows verified business sellers to list eBikes and batteries, while actively auditing listings to ensure compliance with safety regulations. The platform has initiated CE audits of battery listings to confirm that all products possess valid CE documentation, utilizing algorithmic filters and AI monitoring to prevent unsafe listings.

The scrutiny faced by Amazon and eBay reflects a broader concern regarding eBike safety and regulation within the UK. With a surge in eBike usage, particularly in urban areas, the need for stringent safety measures has never been more critical. As the UK government grapples with the implications of this growing market, the emphasis on consumer safety and regulatory compliance will likely shape the future landscape of eBike sales online.

As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how these major marketplace platforms will respond to the mounting pressures from both lawmakers and safety advocates. The implications of their actions could significantly influence not only consumer safety but also the regulatory framework governing eBike sales in the UK and potentially beyond.