Sadiq Khan bans e-bikes on Tube after union strike threat
Transport for London (TfL) said non-folding e-bikes will no longer be allowed on the Tube, Overground, Elizabeth line and DLR from March 31.
The ban includes conventional bicycles that have been turned into e-bikes using conversion kits.
The Labour mayor of the capital is likely to face accusations he has given in to trade union militancy once again, after members of Aslef threatened industrial action unless TfL banned the devices.
The walkout threat came after an e-bike caught fire on the platform at Rayners Lane Tube station in north-west London.
Electrically-assisted bicycles are fitted with a motor and a battery so riders can pedal faster and for longer, while tiring themselves less.
Batteries using lithium-ion technology are typically fitted to e-bikes. They have caused a number of lethal explosions and fires after being plugged into the wrong chargers.
A coroner ruled in February that the deaths of a couple and their two dogs in a house fire had been caused when a charging e-bike battery ignited and 'rapidly escalated into an intense blaze'.
Charlie Pugsley, a London fire brigade deputy commissioner, said of Tuesday's TfL ban: 'We welcome this move by TfL following their detailed safety review, as it acknowledges the risks that we know e-bike batteries can pose.
'While we recognise the sustainable benefits e-bikes, and micromobility generally, bring to our city, the reality is that across London we have been seeing an e-bike or e-scooter fire every other day, on average, and we have particular concern about the risk posed by conversion kits or modified e-bikes.
'When these fires occur, they can be sudden, incredibly ferocious and produce smoke that is extremely toxic.'
Finn Brennan, the union's London Underground organiser, said: 'We welcome the announcement by TfL that non-folding e-bikes are to be banned from its services on London Underground, on the Overground, and on the Elizabeth line.
'This is something for which Aslef health and safety reps have long campaigned. It will reduce the risk of a serious accident, and the dangers caused by large numbers of unfolded e-bikes blocking exits in emergencies.
'We are pleased that TfL have listened to our concerns and has now acted on them.'
Sir Sadiq said in a statement: 'The safety of Londoners is my top priority and, while most e-bikes are safe, there have been a small number of incidents where non-foldable e-bikes have caught fire on the transport system, which have caused me great concern.
'This is why, following a comprehensive review of the safety of e-bikes, TfL is banning all non-folding e-bikes on tube and rail services.
'I have asked TfL to continue to work with Government and partners to improve e-bike safety as we build a safer London for everyone.'
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