Pedego Electric Bikes of Irvine, CA has recalled about 5,000 lithium rechargeable batteries because they can overheat and pose a fire hazard.
The recall involves 36-volt and 48-volt lithium ion rechargeable batteries sold separately and as original equipment with Pedego electric bikes. Recalled batteries of each voltage came in two styles. One style has a silver or black metal case that measures about 13 ½ inches long, 6 ½ inches wide and 2 ½ inches high, with black plastic end caps and a handle. The other style has a black or white plastic case that measures about 14 inches long, 6 ½ inches wide and 2 ½ inches high with a red indicator lamp on one end. The batteries have serial numbers that start with “DLG.” A label with the serial number is on one side of the metal batteries and on the underside of the plastic batteries.
Pedego has received six reports of batteries overheating and catching fire, including one report of property damage. No injuries have been reported.
The company has instructed consumers to immediately remove the battery from the bike and contact Pedego for a free replacement battery.
The batteries were sold by bicycle stores and electric bike retailers and online at www.pedegoelectricbikes.com from January 2010 through September 2013. The batteries were sold separately for about $600 to $900 and on electric bicycles that sold for between $2,000 and $3,000.
