Battery Breakdown

Is your e-bike battery safe?

E-bike Fire Risk Warning: is your battery safe?

Certain UPP e-bike batteries (models U004 and U004-1) are deemed to pose a serious fire risk according to the Government. Find out how to check your battery, stay safe and dispose of affected models safely and responsibly.

We've identified dangerous UPP (unit pack power) e-bike batteries still being sold privately across the UK – despite the issue of a Government withdrawal notice in January 2024, stating that the UPP battery posed a serious risk of fire.

If you own an e-bike, we urge you to check your battery today.

 

 

Target

Key points

  • UPP U004 and U004-1 batteries pose a fire risk
  • They are still being sold despite Government warnings
  • Check your battery and take action

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What's the risk?

  • The UPP e-bike batteries (models U004 and U004-1) have been linked to serious fires, risking explosion and the release of toxic gases.
  • Affected batteries risk entering thermal runaway – a rapid and extreme chemical reaction that can cause ferocious fires almost impossible to extinguish.

How to identify an affected battery

Check your e-bike battery carefully for these features:

  • Triangular shape: the battery case has a distinctive triangular design.
  • Brand stickers: look for stickers showing “UPP Battery” and/or a model number label such as “U004 Battery”.
  • LED display or indicator lights: some batteries include an LED screen or small lights indicating charge levels.
  • The battery arrives with a charge socket and power switch: a visible charging port and a separate on/off switch are located on the battery casing.

Check the sticker

Important: check for a black sticker on the battery’s outer case. If the model number reads “U004” or “U004-1”, the battery is affected and should not be used.

Why it matters

  • We found seven private listings online of these dangerous batteries across cities such as Manchester, London, Hull and Derbyshire.
  • Some were even advertised as “a little burnt” - a potential sign of damage and increased risk.
  • Serious incidents have been reported as involving these batteries by the Government.

What to do if you have an affected battery

  1. Stop using it immediately.
  2. Disconnect and keep the battery safely away from your living area.
  3. Do not dispose of the battery in the general waste or normal recycling – this could put other people at risk. Find a suitable local recycling point or seek advice on how to safely dispose of the battery.
  4. Contact the seller for redress – find more information on the Government’s website.
  5. Spread the word – let others know to check their e-bike batteries too.

Stay informed, stay safe.

This warning could save your home - or your life. 

Please check your battery today.

For more guidance on how to stay safe using e-bikes and e-scooters, visit our Safe use page.

For more information on the battery visit the Government’s product safety report page.

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