While Other Countries Sell Them, the U.S. Pulls Them from Shelves: 220,000 Electric Scooters Recalled for Safety Risks

In the United States, consumer product safety is a top priority, as evidenced by the recent recall of electric scooters due to serious risks to users. A prime example is the withdrawal of approximately 220,000 units of Segway’s Ninebot Max G30P and Max G30LP models.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported that the folding mechanism in these scooters can fail, causing the handlebar or stem to unexpectedly collapse during use, posing a significant fall hazard. To date, there have been 68 reported incidents linked to this defect, resulting in 20 injuries, including abrasions, contusions, lacerations, and fractures.

Consumers who purchased these scooters between January 2020 and February 2025 from major retailers such as Best Buy, Costco, Walmart, Target, and Sam's Club, as well as online platforms like Amazon and Segway’s official website, are urged to stop using the products immediately. Segway is offering a free maintenance kit, including tools and instructions, to inspect and fix the folding mechanism to ensure safe usage.

This recall is not an isolated event in the U.S. market. Walmart recently issued a recall of about 18,000 Swagtron SG-5 Swagger 5 Boost electric scooters due to the risk of fire and burns caused by overheating lithium-ion batteries.

In contrast, responses to safety issues with electric scooters may differ in other countries. While the U.S. takes proactive steps like voluntary recalls to prevent injuries, in some places, regulations are less strict and corrective measures slower or less transparent. This highlights the importance of consumer awareness and responsibility, regardless of local enforcement or manufacturer action.

The rising popularity of electric scooters as urban transportation has also sparked growing safety concerns. It is essential that manufacturers uphold high quality and safety standards, and that consumers remain alert to recall notices and follow all safety recommendations to protect themselves and others.