Engwe LE20 Cargo Ebike

SaferProducts.gov consumer incident report 20260609-3C977-2147317375. Severity: Incident, No Injury. Product: Engwe LE20 Cargo Ebike (Brand / Manufacturer: ENGWE (Shenzhen Engwe Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd.) Model Name: LE20 Step-Thru Cargo E-Bike (US Version) Color: Space Gray (Matte/Metallic industrial dark gray frame with black accents and black battery casing) Frame Material: 6061 Aluminum Alloy Motor Specifications: 48V 750W Brushless Rear Hub Motor (1300W Peak Power, 75 Nm Torque) Battery Specifications: 48V 19.2Ah Lithium-ion cells per pack (Single Pack: 921.6 Wh / Dual Pack Option: 1,843.2 Wh) I have the dual option. Top Speed: * Throttle-only Mode: 20 MPH (32 KPH) Pedal-Assist Mode (Class 3): 28 MPH (45 KPH) Vehicle Weight: * Net Weight (Single Battery): 81.1 lbs (36.8 kg) Net Weight (Dual Battery variant): 91.5 lbs (41.5 kg) Maximum Payload Capacity: 440 lbs (200 kg) Tire Size: 20 x 3.0 inches (Puncture-resistant fat tires) Braking System: 180 mm Front and Rear Hydraulic Disc Brakes). Incident: Summary: Severe manufacturing defect involving reversed electrical polarity at the factory-installed battery port, resulting in a catastrophic short circuit, complete electrical system failure, and unrecoverable battery damage. The Defect: During factory assembly, the positive (+) and negative (-) wiring leads behind the main dual-battery connection port were crossed and connected in reverse polarity. The Incident & Progression: The vehicle initially exhibited irregular motor noise and progressive electrical resistance under normal operation. Upon attempting to isolate the issue with an authorized manufacturer-supplied component, the reversed polarity circuit caused a catastrophic backflow of current. This triggered a critical over-voltage loop, permanently destroying the electronic controller and locking out the main lithium-ion batteries. Certified Diagnostic Proof: A professional inspection conducted by certified technicians at an independent bicycle service