CPSC Alert: Rad Power Bikes' Battery Hazards

On Monday, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a serious warning regarding the batteries used in Rad Power Bikes’ electric models, highlighting them as potential hazards responsible for multiple fire incidents, posing risks of severe harm or even fatal consequences.

The agency revealed that these batteries have a dangerous tendency to ignite or explode without warning, especially when exposed to water or dirt that infiltrates their cells or harness. The CPSC reported 31 cases of fires, with 12 resulting in property damage amounting to a significant $734,500. Notably, some incidents occurred while the battery was inactive, neither charging nor in use, yet no injuries have been documented.

Included Battery Models

The models alerted by the CPSC include: RadWagon 4, RadCity HS 4, RadRover High Step 5, RadCity Step Thru 3, RadRover Step Thru 1, RadRunner 2, RadRunner 1, RadRunner Plus, and RadExpand 5. The defective batteries hold model numbers HL-RP-S1304 or RP-1304, prominently labeled at the rear, all originating from Chinese manufacturers.

Company's Response and Financial Strain

In response, Rad Power Bikes, headquartered in Seattle, has declined an appropriate recall arrangement sought by CPSC. Due to significant financial difficulties following the bike sales surge post-COVID, the company disclosed its inability to provide widespread replacements or refunds.

Once flourishing, especially in North America, the electric bike company now grapples with severe economic struggles, facing potential shut down unless it secures a fresh influx of capital, as reported recently by GeekWire.

Battery Incidents and Safety Enhancements

Recently, numerous deadly fires in the US and UK have been linked to substandard e-bike batteries. In New York City alone, faulty lithium-ion batteries have been fatal for many delivery workers who rely on e-bikes daily. However, Rad Power Bikes hasn’t been directly involved in incidents causing injuries or fatalities, yet acknowledges the detrimental impact negative perceptions of its battery safety could have on its brand.

To counter these concerns, the company introduced novel battery designs last year with embedded thermal resistance features aimed at reducing fire risks. These enhancements involve infusing epoxy resin into the cells, preventing dangerous chemical reactions leading to potential explosions, also known as thermal runaway.

Compliance and Technological Shifts

In addition, Rad Power Bikes transitioned to more robust 21,700 battery cells from the previously used 18,650 model, meeting UL safety standards for both their bicycles and batteries.

Official Company Statements

Kelsey Wolf, Rad Power Bikes' director of brand marketing and communications, voiced the company's strong disagreement with the CPSC’s portrayal of their batteries as unsafe. Despite independent assessments confirming compliance with industry safety norms, the CPSC dismissed these validations, maintaining a stance of caution.

"Even though the occurrence rate mentioned by CPSC in terms of battery issues is below one percent," stated Wolf, "we acknowledge that one incident is still too many, and feel deeply saddened by any adverse events linked to our products."

She emphasized Rad Power Bikes' dedication to engaging with the CPSC to resolve these issues, proposing several genuine solutions including discounted upgrades to the new safer battery models for customers—proposals that were nonetheless declined by the CPSC.

"The draconian requirements posed by the CPSC could force us to halt operations immediately, cutting off support both to our customer base and our workforce," Wolf lamented.