Electric vehicle owners are being warned about the dangers of yellowing charging cables, which may indicate wear and tear that could lead to safety hazards. Experts from Electrical Safety First (ESF) have raised concerns after finding that more than 50 products sold on major online marketplaces fail to meet safety standards.
The survey by ESF revealed that 37% of people use online marketplaces to compare prices of household items, with many opting for cheaper alternatives due to the cost of living crisis. However, tests on EV charging cables from sites like Amazon Marketplace, eBay, and AliExpress found they posed risks of electric shock and overheating.
Lesley Rudd, Chief Executive of ESF, stated: 'Charging your car should never put you at risk and the devices we found for sale via online marketplaces risk turning the everyday task of charging up into a potential hazard.' She urged the Government to introduce laws to hold online marketplaces accountable for the safety of goods sold on their platforms.
In 2022, the Office for Product Safety and Standards recalled a popular EV charging cable sold on Amazon after it was found to present a risk of electric shock and burns. Experts advise consumers to buy from reputable retailers like Halfords or directly from car manufacturers, and to check safety certificates and reviews before purchasing.
