London's local authorities are demanding an immediate government crackdown on the sale of dangerous electric bicycles, conversion kits, and uncertified batteries. The call comes during Road Safety Week, with boroughs highlighting a surge in illegally modified vehicles that pose a severe risk to riders and the public.
Powers Sought to Regulate Online Marketplaces
London Councils, which manage 95 per cent of the capital's roads, is urging ministers to utilise new legislation. They want the government to employ powers under the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill to tighten the legal definition of online marketplaces. This change would make these digital platforms directly accountable for allowing the sale of unsafe or illegal goods.
The body is also calling on the Labour Party government to bolster Trading Standards offices across the country. Their request includes providing increased resources, stronger enforcement powers, and the authority to issue on-the-spot fines and immediately remove hazardous products from sale.
Officials Warn of "Lives at Risk"
Mayor Brenda Dacres OBE, London Councils’ Executive Member for Transport and Environment, issued a stark warning. "We want Londoners to feel confident that when they buy or use an e-bike, it’s safe for them and for everyone around them," she stated.
"But right now, we’re seeing unsafe, illegally modified e-bikes and batteries sold online. This is putting Londoners lives at risk, and that simply must change. We need better oversight," Dacres continued. She affirmed that while boroughs are promoting awareness, further specific legislation on e-bikes is crucial for resident safety, acknowledging their role in London's green transport future.
Transport for London Backs Calls for Urgent Regulation
Lilli Matson, Transport for London's Chief Safety, Health and Environment Officer, echoed the concerns. She emphasised that while quality e-bikes are a positive part of a sustainable transport system, safety must be paramount.
"We’re proud to be working with London Councils to launch a new rider safety factsheet during Road Safety Week," Matson said. She confirmed TfL's long-standing call for proper industry regulation, citing worries over the growing use of unsafe and non-road-legal e-bikes which are often legally classified as motorbikes.
Matson stressed that secondary legislation is urgently needed to tackle the sale of illegally modified e-bikes, conversion kits, and uncertified lithium-ion batteries. This action would enforce higher safety standards and help consumers make safer purchasing decisions.
