Electric Scooter Explodes In China, Rider Narrowly Escapes

The popularity of electric scooters and motorbikes has surged in many regions around the world, but it might be a long time before this e-bike owner dares to ride again. The battery-powered motorcycle dramatically caught fire and exploded in the middle of an intersection in China, an incident sure to leave a lasting impression.

The incident took place on October 7 in the Longhua District of Shenzhen, around 7 p.m., and was, fortuitously, caught on the dashcam of a nearby motorist. The footage captures the critical moments after the electric scooter ignited, sending sparks into the air. Sensing imminent danger, the rider quickly abandoned the bike at the center of the intersection as the flames intensified.

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Moments after the bike falls to the ground, and all while the rider is just inches away from it, it explodes, generating a huge ball of flames and sending smoke billowing into the air. The rider quickly emerges from the inferno and can be seen rolling away from the scene in a desperate attempt to put out the flames that engulfed his body.

Images shared on Chinese social media after the accident show the man suffered burns to his torso, face, and legs, and was left standing topless while waiting for first responders to arrive on the scene. Firefighters did eventually arrive on the scene and were able to extinguish the blaze but they obviously couldn’t save the electric scooter.

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The reason for the blaze is unknown and further details likely won’t be known until authorities complete a thorough investigation. Chinese media reported that some witnesses speculated the scooter may have been modified, potentially contributing to the fire and explosion, though this has not been confirmed. The most important thing is that the rider survived, and no bystanders were harmed in the inferno.

Video Weibo