For Immediate Release
September 17, 2002
Release # 02-251
CPSC Media Contact: Kim Dulic (301) 504-0580 Ext. 1183
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
EV Global Recall Hotline: (888) 875-4545
CPSC and EV Global Motors Co. Announce Recall of Lithium Batteries in
Electric Bikes
WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety
Commission (CPSC), EV Global Motors Co., of North Hills, Calif., is
voluntarily recalling about 2,000 lithium batteries in Mini E-Bike
electric bicycles. The lithium ion batteries in these bicycles can
overheat and pose a fire hazard.
EV Global Motors has received five reports of the batteries
overheating, three of which caught fire, though no injuries have been
reported.
The recalled lithium ion batteries are used to power EV Global's
folding Mini E-Bike. The battery, which is located in the battery
compartment just in front of the seat, is supplied with most models of
the Mini E-Bike. The words "mini e-bike" are printed on the side of the
bicycle near the steering column. These bicycles are manufactured in
Taiwan and the battery packs are assembled in the U.S.
Bicycle, automobile and Internet retailers nationwide sold the
electric bikes from February 2001 through July 2002 for between $1,400
and $1,700.
Consumers should stop using these bicycles immediately and contact
EV Global at (888) 875-4545 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday
through Friday for information on receiving a free replacement battery
and charger. Consumers also can log on to the company's web site at
www.EVGlobal.com The firm also will extend the warranty of the battery
from 6 months to a year.