UK MPs Demand Amazon Ban Illegal 70 mph E‑Bike Kits as Fire Risks Soar
Recent revelations have sent shockwaves through the UK’s cycling and safety communities. British MPs, spearheaded by Fabian Hamilton and Olly Glover, are demanding that Amazon remove illegal e‑bike kits capable of reaching up to 70 mph—far exceeding the legal limit of 15.5 mph. Coverage in The Times and The Guardian highlights mounting concerns over reckless conversions and substandard batteries that pose both fire hazards and public safety threats.
What’s Really Going on?
1. MPs Expose Illegal High-Speed Kits
A cross-party parliamentary group (APPGCW) uncovered that online conversions—often sold via Amazon, eBay, and other marketplaces—enable bikes to hit speeds of 40 mph to 70 mph, with power outputs sometimes reaching 2,000 W, alongside uncontrolled throttle systems. These modifications violate UK law, which restricts pedal-assisted e‑bikes to 250 W and 15.5 mph speeds.
2. Dangerous Batteries Fuel Fire Surge
MPs and fire safety groups warn these kits frequently come with batteries and chargers that bypass UK safety standards, sparking a dramatic rise in fire incidents. London Fire Brigade (LFB) reports show a surge in fire cases—rising from 8 in 2019 to 179 in 2023—many tied to dubious conversions.
3. Police Seizures Reflect Crisis
According to ITV News, UK police seized 937 illegal e‑bikes in one year. Some bikes, capable of 70 mph, weigh over 50 kg and are likened to “death traps.” One City of London seizure involved a bike displaying 6,000 miles of usage.
4. MPs Demand Action
The APPGCW has called for critical measures:
- Require Amazon, eBay, and others to immediately delist non-compliant kits
- Hold platforms legally accountable for unsafe listings
- Empower police to confiscate illegal e‑bikes
- Launch a scrappage scheme, funded by delivery companies
- Establish a UK e‑bike safety certification “kite mark”
5. Gig Economy Under Scrutiny
Delivery riders are uniquely impacted. Many resort to high-speed, modified kits to eke out more deliveries—sometimes carrying multiple batteries— putting themselves and the public at risk.
Exploding Batteries: A Hidden Public Safety Hazard
London Fire Brigade’s Warning
The LFB warns of “e‑bikes and e‑scooters as the fastest growing fire trend” Fires often ignite within seconds (“thermal runaway”)—like the notorious incident at Sutton station, where a bike erupted into flames in under six seconds.
Real Lives, Real Consequences
Tragic losses include the deaths of Sofia Duarte and others due to conversion-kit and battery fires—often in high-rise homes where escape routes were blocked.
Expert Advice
London Fire Brigade and Electrical Safety First urge consumers to:
- Buy from reputable retailers
- Avoid DIY conversions without proper certifications
- Only charge batteries with manufacturer-approved chargers
- Never charge in bedrooms or hallways.
🚴♂️ Legal, Safe Alternatives: Introducing DYU
As MPs push for stringent safety measures, there’s an opportunity to spotlight responsible e-bike brands. One such brand is DYU, which offers fully certified models designed to comply with UK regulations. Based in both the US and Europe, they feature compliant models, sold via DYU’s UK Summer Sale. Highlighted models include:
DYU D3F – Mini & Mighty
- 14″ wheels, 250 W motor, capped at ~15.5 mph
- Ultra-light at ~38 lb, foldable frame
- Ideal for urban commuters and teens seeking portability
DYU A5 – Commuter’s Dream
- Sleek design, 250 W motor, 15.5 mph limit
- 36 V/10 Ah battery for ample 25+ mile range
- Hydraulic forks and fenders for all-weather use
DYU FF500 – Foldable & Futuristic
- 20″ wheels, 48 V battery, 250 W motor output
- Full suspension frame for smooth rides
- Top-tier build with integrated lights & display
DYU C6 Pro – Foldable Performance
- 16″ wheels, magnesium-alloy frame, 250 W motor
- Quick 8 second fold, range ~30 miles
- Disc brakes, LED lights, rear rack included
Why DYU Aligns with Safety Standards
- UK-compliant: All models meet the 250 W / 15.5 mph limit
- Certified batteries & chargers: Adhere to CE and UL standards
- Physical safety features: Disc brakes, lights, and fenders
- Responsible manufacture: Each bike is tested and labelled
These models offer peace of mind compared to unregulated conversion kits—empowering riders to enjoy eco-conscious, practical commuting without breaking the law or risking safety.
Navigating a Safer E‑Bike Landscape
For Consumers
- Always check certification (CE, UL, Kitemark)
- Avoid “off‑road only” disclaimers or DIY kit loopholes
- Choose reputable brands like DYU with UK distribution
- Understand local laws—250 W / 15.5 mph, insurance requirements
For UK Platforms
- Enforce stricter listing protocols for e‑mobility items
- Require verified compliance documentation from sellers
- Use AI-driven listing moderation and manual audits
For Government
- Introduce a UK e‑bike safety kite mark, enforced by OPSS
- Grant police the power to seize and destroy illegal bikes
- Launch publicly funded scrap page incentives
- Ensure gig workers gain proper employment protections
For Delivery Companies
- Supply riders with legal, certified e‑bikes
- Pay by shift, not per delivery, removing speed incentives
- Offer charging infrastructure and maintenance support
The surge of illegal 70 mph e‑bike kits is a clear and present danger—fueling fire risk, physical harm, and legal ambiguity. MPs are right to demand immediate action from Amazon, delivery platforms, and regulators alike.
However, the solution isn't throttling e‑bikes—it’s directing riders toward safe, compliant options. Brands like DYU offer ideal alternatives: affordable, stylish, foldable, and most importantly, lawful. Models like D3F, A5, FF500, and C6 Pro provide peace of mind, letting riders focus on commuting—not compliance.
we can foster a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future for mobility in the UK.
