Guy makes "dodgy e-bike" from 130 used vapes to make point about e-waste

Chris Doel has created a "dodgy e-bike" using 130 discarded disposable vape batteries to highlight the issue of e-waste. Many disposable vapes contain rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, yet they are often discarded, contributing to a significant e-waste problem. In the UK alone, over 260 million vape batteries are estimated to be thrown away each year. Doel's project involved repurposing the batteries into a 48-volt, 1,500-watt e-bike battery, which powered the bike for approximately 20 miles with minimal pedaling. His endeavor serves as a demonstration of the potential wastefulness of disposable vapes, especially as the UK plans to ban them in June 2025. The U.S. also faces challenges with disposable vapes, as many products evade regulation, leading to a surge in sales. The U.S. Public Interest Research Group estimates that the lithium wasted from these vapes could be enough to power 2,600 electric vehicles annually. Doel's project, while innovative, comes with safety warnings due to the risks involved in handling and repurposing lithium-ion batteries.

- Chris Doel created an e-bike from 130 used disposable vape batteries to raise awareness about e-waste.

- Over 260 million vape batteries are discarded annually in the UK, contributing to a growing e-waste crisis.

- The UK plans to ban disposable vapes in June 2025, while the U.S. faces regulatory challenges with these products.

- The lithium wasted from disposable vapes in the U.S. could power approximately 2,600 electric vehicles each year.

- Doel's project highlights the potential for repurposing e-waste, but also emphasizes safety concerns with battery handling.