E-bikes and e-scooters have become part of everyday life in Australia. They're convenient, affordable to run, and increasingly popular for commuting and food delivery. But they've also become the fastest-growing source of lithium-ion battery fires in the country — and the consequences are devastating.

Nationally, fire services reported more than 1,000 lithium battery fires over the past year. In early February 2025, Sydney saw four separate e-bike and e-scooter fires in just 12 hours. In one incident, an e-scooter battery exploded in a home in Sadlier, injuring two men — one from flying shrapnel, the other from burns and smoke inhalation. A house in Launching Place, Victoria was completely destroyed after a lithium-ion battery ignited during charging, with eight CFA brigades unable to save the dwelling.

Why Are E-Bike Fires Happening?

The answer lies largely in the quality and handling of batteries, not in the technology itself.

The most common causes include using incorrect or mismatched chargers, modifying devices with aftermarket parts for more power or range, overcharging batteries, and storing or charging batteries in inappropriate conditions — on carpet, bedding, or near flammable materials. Delivery riders are at particularly high risk, as many use modified high-capacity batteries with accelerated charging equipment to minimise downtime.

When a lithium-ion cell is damaged, overheated, or overcharged to the point of failure, it enters thermal runaway — a self-sustaining chemical reaction that generates extreme heat, toxic gases, and flames that cannot be controlled with standard firefighting methods. The reaction can spread from cell to cell, and the fire can reignite hours or even days after it appears extinguished.

New Australian Safety Standards

NSW has led the charge with mandatory safety standards for lithium-ion e-micromobility products. Since February 2025, all e-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards, and e-skateboards sold in NSW must comply with prescribed product safety standards and carry safety information at the point of sale.

The NSW Coroner has also announced an inquest into lithium-ion battery fires, signalling that this issue is being treated with the seriousness it demands.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Home

Prevention starts with purchasing decisions. Buy from reputable brands that use quality cells and provide proper certification. Never purchase a battery or charger from an unknown online seller offering suspiciously low prices — that bargain could cost you your home.

Be Ready If the Worst Happens

Even with every precaution in place, having the right safety equipment is essential. Make sure you have a working smoke alarm — or better yet, a heat alarm — in any room where lithium-ion devices are charged or stored. Have a home evacuation plan that every household member knows.

Keep a purpose-built lithium-ion fire extinguisher and an EV fire blanket near your charging area. Traditional ABC extinguishers are not formulated for these fires and cannot address thermal runaway or prevent reignition.

If a fire does occur: get everyone out immediately, close doors behind you, and call 000. Do not attempt to move a burning device. As Fire and Rescue NSW puts it — get out, stay out, and call Triple Zero.

Don't Forget Disposal

When your e-bike or e-scooter battery reaches the end of its life, don't throw it in the household rubbish or recycling bin. Lithium-ion batteries have caused fires in waste collection trucks and recycling facilities across Australia. Take large batteries to a Community Recycling Centre or Household Chemical CleanOut event — check the NSW EPA website or your local council for locations.