The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) has determined that Europe Cycle Company BV (ECC), the manufacturer of Vogue cargo bikes, must immediately stop selling all of its cargo bikes.
This decision was made after a thorough investigation by the NVWA, which revealed serious safety risks. The problems appear to be mainly in the frame and seat post of the cargo bikes, which can break in certain models. This puts users at considerable risk of accidents.
The NVWA has ECC informed of their legal obligation to immediately cease sales of the cargo bikes. The reason for this drastic action is the lack of complete technical documentation for all types of cargo bikes. Without this documentation, the safety of the cargo bikes cannot be guaranteed, and therefore the company is obliged to suspend sales until it can be demonstrated that the cargo bikes are safe to use.
recall
In addition to ceasing sales, ECC has also been forced to initiate a recall for the Vogue Troy and Vogue Journey models. A risk assessment by the NVWA has shown that these specific models pose serious safety risks. The frame and seat post of these cargo bikes show an increased risk of fracture, which can lead to dangerous situations for the user.
Responsibility for the recall lies entirely with ECC, which must ensure its implementation based on legal requirements. The NVWA will not play an active role in this, but has given clear advice to consumers. “Do not use these cargo bikes anymore, they pose a potentially serious risk to your safety,” warns the supervisor. Consumers who want more information can refer to the safety warning that ECC has issued.
Vogue cargo bikes
The problems with Vogue cargo bikes are not new. Previously, there were reports of broken frames and other technical defects. Several users had already contacted our editors with complaints about the quality of their cargo bikes, but the severity and extent of the defects now appear to be greater than initially thought. The news of the recall and the sales ban emphasises how serious the situation has become.
Vogue is not the only manufacturer facing these kinds of issues. Babboe, once praised for its practical and affordable cargo bikes, is currently also facing similar challenges. Babboe is currently in the middle of a legal quagmire due to a growing number of claims, accusing the company of delivering products that do not meet safety standards. This reputational damage to the cargo bike industry now seems to be affecting Vogue as well.
recall
The suspension of sales and the recall have a major impact on ECC and its customers. Many consumers who own a Vogue cargo bike are now faced with uncertainty. In addition, the company will have to demonstrate that it is able to solve the technical problems before sales can resume.
ECC has indicated that it will fully cooperate with the recovery measures imposed by the NVWA. The manufacturer promises to take action quickly and ensure that the defects are remedied. It is still unclear how long it will take before the sale of the cargo bikes can start again. This will depend on the time needed to get the technical documentation in order and to guarantee the safety of the products.
For now, it is clear that consumers should be alert and not use the cargo bikes for the time being. The NVWA will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure that the right steps are taken to ensure the safety of the products.
