UK fire services are now tackling a lithium-ion battery fire once every five hours – equivalent to 4.8 fires a day – according to new research from insurer QBE. The number of lithium-ion battery fires continues to rise year on year, up 147% since 2022.

E-bikes accounted for 520 fires in 2025, more than tripling since 2022 and making up close to a third of all lithium-ion battery fires recorded that year. Of these, 44% were tackled by the London Fire Brigade, with 230 e-bike fires occurring in the capital last year. Fires involving electric vehicles increased by 133% (120 to 279) between 2022 and 2025, however the number of electric vehicles on the road tripled over the same period (+206%), from 664,148 EVs to 1,971,764 EVs.

In terms of location, almost half (46%) of lithium-ion battery fires took place in homes, while 31% occurred outdoors and 23% were recorded in commercial properties.

Lithium-ion battery fires are the result of ‘thermal runaway’ which is a chemical reaction where batteries start to irreversibly overheat, usually due to impact damage, over-charging or over-heating. Thermal runaway is unpredictable and ignites fires that spread faster and take far longer to tackle than ordinary combustion, increasing the risk of injury and damage to property.

QBE is calling for greater awareness of lithium-ion batteries by sharing tips on safe charging, storage and disposal in order to minimise risk and keep people and property safe. Adrian Simmonds, risk manager at QBE Insurance, said: “Lithium-ion battery fires continue to increase. It’s vital that people and businesses take action to better manage this growing risk. Thermal runaway caused by these types of batteries burns differently, takes much longer to tackle and can require up to 10 times more water to contain.

“Awareness of safe charging, storage and disposal is essential to keeping people and property safe. People should use only certified e-bikes and batteries, charge them away from escape routes and avoid charging items overnight.”

Increased regulation for products containing the batteries could be on the way however. The UK granted royal assent to the Product Regulation and Metrology Act in July 2025. The Act enables the UK government to overhaul product safety regulations, specifically targeting emerging dangers from uncertified products, including e-bikes, from online marketplaces.

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