PSA: Recall on Rad Power Bikes batteries

US recall notice for lithium ion batteries sold with Rad Power Bikes or as replacements (model numbers RP-1304 and HL-RP-S1304). CPSC indicates that Rad isn’t offering replacement or refunds and urges consumers to stop use and to dispose of the affected batteries correctly following local hazardous waste procedures.

The importer, Rad Power Bikes Inc., of Seattle, Washington has refused to agree to an acceptable recall. Given its financial situation, Rad Power Bikes has indicated to CPSC that it is unable to offer replacement batteries or refunds to all consumers.

Rad did offer their own comments:

Rad’s Safe Shield batteries and semi-integrated batteries are not subject to the agency’s statement. Rad had the batteries re-tested by third-party labs as part of this investigation; the batteries passed these tests again. Nonetheless, in an effort to partner with the CPSC, Rad proposed multiple solutions to the agency in good faith. Rad informed the agency that its demand to replace all batteries, regardless of condition, would immediately put Rad out of business, which would be of no benefit to our riders. Rad is disappointed that it could not reach a resolution that best serves our riders and the industry at large. Rad reminds its customers to inspect batteries before use or charging and immediately stop using batteries that show signs of damage, water ingress, or corrosion, and to contact Rad so we can support our riders.

My guess is that RAD knew this was coming and was one of the reasons why it announced it’s significant downsizing 2 weeks ago and potential closure.

They were probably forced to disclose the pending recall to that potential purchaser they were talking about until a few weeks ago. This issue likely sunk the deal.