London has taken a significant step to ensure public safety by banning non-folding e-bikes from its public transport network, effective March 31st. The decision comes in response to the growing concern over fires caused by e-bikes, particularly those converted using DIY kits. Transport for London (TfL) has announced that only folding e-bikes will be permitted on the London Underground, Overground, Elizabeth Line, and DLR, citing the reduced risk of fires associated with these models.

The ban is a result of several fires on public transport linked to e-bikes, including a recent incident at Rayners Lane station where an e-bike burst into flames on the platform. The London Fire Brigade has reported an average of one e-bike or e-scooter fire every other day, with these fires often being sudden, ferocious, and producing extremely toxic smoke. The train drivers' union ASLEF, along with the RMT and TSSA transport unions, had threatened a strike if safety measures weren't implemented, prompting TfL to take action.

TfL acknowledges that e-bikes and micromobility options bring sustainable benefits to the city, but the organization cannot ignore the fire risks posed by conversion kits or modified e-bikes. The ban will remain in place until improved product safety measures are implemented for conversion kits, batteries, and chargers. This move is seen as a necessary step to protect passengers and staff from the potential dangers of e-bike fires.

It's worth noting that full-size bikes, including electric and non-electric models, are already prohibited on London's bus and tram services, and are only allowed on certain parts of the Underground network at specific times, with a blanket ban during rush hour. Once the electric bike ban comes into effect, non-folding e-bikes will only be permitted on the Woolwich Ferry, certain river and coach services, and the dedicated Silvertown Tunnel Cycle Shuttle, which opens on April 7th.

The exemption for folding e-bikes is expected to benefit companies like Brompton and Gocycle, both of which are based in London and specialize in foldable models. While this ban may cause inconvenience to some e-bike users, it's clear that TfL has prioritized public safety in making this decision. As the city continues to navigate the complexities of sustainable transportation, it's essential to balance the benefits of e-bikes with the need to protect passengers and staff from potential risks.

The ban serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the safety of public transportation, particularly as cities increasingly adopt sustainable and innovative mobility solutions. As the industry moves forward, it's crucial to develop and implement robust safety measures to mitigate risks and ensure a safe and reliable transportation network for all users.