Recall: Target Recall of Electric Scooters

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 2, 2004 Release # 04-207

Firm's Hotline: (800) 440-0680 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

CPSC, Target Announce Recall of Electric Scooters

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announces the following recall in voluntary cooperation with the firm below. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product: Leoch Electric Scooters (also known as "Red Dragon" and "E-Scooter")

Units: 74,811

Manufacturer: Leoch E-Vehicle Ltd.

Importer: Target Corp., of Minneapolis, Minn.

Hazard: Improper wiring can cause a short circuit, posing a fire hazard in the scooter. In addition, inadequate insulation may expose electrical wiring, which poses a shock hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Target has received two reports of the scooters catching fire. There have been 13 reports of scooters starting and/or moving on their own. One person reported receiving scratches as a result. There have also been five reports of property damage, including two reports of the scooters causing house fires.

Description: The recall involves Leoch-brand scooters that were also sold under the names "E-Scooter" and "Red Dragon." The scooters have a seat, two wheels and footrests on each side. A sticker on the left footrest reads, "E-Scooter." On the right footrest is a sticker with a horse-head image. A serial number is printed underneath the left footrest. The affected scooter's model number is DK24250-3.

Sold at: Target stores nationwide from February 2003 through June 2004 for about $200.

Manufactured in: China.

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the scooters immediately and return them to any Target store for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: Call Target toll-free at (800) 440-0680 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.target.com