Warning: Dangerous E-Bike Batteries Still Being Sold on Facebook Marketplace
Last Updated on May 14, 2025 by Kristina
An alarming warning has emerged from the UK: dangerous e-bike batteries are being sold on Facebook Marketplace. The batteries in question—branded UPP (Unit Pack Power)—have already been linked to several serious fires.
The charity Electrical Safety First, which works to improve electrical safety across the UK, recently found 13 listings of these high-risk batteries being sold by private sellers. All of them were flagged and removed by Facebook—but not before raising major concern.
“Just one of these batteries could put a household at serious risk,” says Giuseppe Capanna, product safety engineer at the charity.
What’s the Risk?
In January 2024, the UK government issued a formal withdrawal notice to Amazon, eBay, and Alibaba, stating that the UPP battery posed a serious fire hazard. The warning was re-issued in April to engage more platforms—yet sellers were still found listing the battery on Facebook Marketplace.
Although Facebook wasn’t included in the original notice, the warning is publicly available. Experts say this highlights a much bigger issue.
“Online marketplaces must step up,” Capanna says. “The current rules don’t go far enough to protect shoppers.”
What Makes the Battery Dangerous?
The affected models are the U004 and U004-1, both triangular in shape. These batteries are prone to thermal runaway, a failure mode that causes the battery to heat up rapidly—up to 600°C. That can lead to:
- Toxic gas release
- Uncontrollable fire
- Severe property damage
Several real-world fires have already been linked to UPP batteries. One fire in Surrey this March destroyed a home. Another in Coventry last September damaged a high-rise building.
The Bigger Picture
According to a Freedom of Information request reported by The Guardian, fires caused by e-scooters and e-bikes have injured at least 190 people and killed eight in the UK as of May 2023.
And the fear is having an impact: a 2023 survey by the Electrical Bike Alliance found that 23% of UK adults are hesitant to buy an e-bike due to fire safety concerns.
Last month, the All Party Parliamentary Group for Cycling & Walking (APPGCW) launched an inquiry into these dangers. Chair MP Fabian Hamilton stressed the stakes:
“E-bikes could be key to a cleaner transport future—but only if we tackle safety issues now.”
How to Spot a UPP Battery
Worried about your own battery? Here’s what to look for:
- Triangular shape
- Stickers with the names “UPPBATTERY” or “U004 BATTERY”
- Model number U004 or U004-1
- LED display, power switch, and charge socket
If you spot these features on your battery, stop using it immediately and contact the manufacturer or retailer.
Safety First. Always.
As e-bikes grow in popularity, so does the need for consumer awareness. Make sure your ride is powered by safe, certified gear—and help spread the word to keep others safe, too.
Check your e-bike battery today. If it’s a UPP model U004 or U004-1, stop using it immediately and share this warning with fellow riders. Your safety comes first.
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Photo credit via Electrical Safety First
Kristina is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.
Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
