ELECTRIC vehicle (EV) fires, are comparatively infrequent compared to fires from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, but reports capture significant attention due to the unique challenges they present in firefighting and safety.
Statistically, compared to internal combustion engine vehicles, EVs are statistically less likely to catch fire. Studies indicate an EV fire rate between 0.0012 percent and 0.02 percent, while ICE vehicles have a higher reported fire rate of around 0.1 percent, according to a report from e-vehicleinfo.com. Despite this lower frequency, EV fires can be more intense and prolonged due to the thermal runaway phenomenon in lithium-ion batteries, posing unique challenges for first responders.
The primary causes of EV fires often stem from battery issues, with thermal runaway being the most common culprit. This is a chain reaction within the battery that results in uncontrolled heat and fire, which can be triggered by manufacturing defects, damage from accidents, overcharging, or exposure to extreme temperatures. Charging-related issues, such as faulty equipment or improper practices, also contribute to the risk of fire, as do severe collisions that can damage the battery. Other less common causes include arson, electrical system faults, and external fires spreading to the vehicle.
The world’s largest EV market, China, has witnessed a concerning increase in fire-related incidents involving their new energy vehicles (NEVs). According to the Chinese Fire and Rescue Department, 3,640 electric vehicles caught fire in the first quarter of this year, representing a 32 percent increase compared to previous periods. This alarming statistic translates to an average of seven electric vehicles catching fire daily.
Several brands have been involved in these incidents. Notably, an AITO M5, the first Harmony OS-powered electric vehicle, caught fire in Mongolia, resulting in two fatalities due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Other incidents include explosions of brand-new electric vehicles while charging, involving brands like Ora, owned by Great Wall Motors.
Even BYD, China’s largest NEV manufacturer, has not been immune, with a reported 11 fire-related incidents between 2020 and 2022. Other brands like Li Auto, Xpeng, and NIO have also experienced fire incidents, though to a lesser extent.
Globally, EV fires have been reported in various regions. South Korea experienced higher incidences, potentially due to rapid EV adoption and differences in charging infrastructure and safety standards. Recent incidents, such as a Mercedes-Benz EV fire in an Incheon apartment complex, have heightened public concerns about the safety of these vehicles.
One incident of an EV fire occurred on February 13, 2023, in Sacramento, California, involving a Chevrolet Bolt EV. The vehicle caught fire while parked in a driveway, shortly after the owner had charged it. Firefighters faced challenges extinguishing the fire due to the thermal runaway in the battery, which required a significant amount of water.
The battery fires were traced back to a manufacturing defect in battery modules supplied by LG, causing shorts in battery cells. The issue affected Bolts with cells manufactured in both South Korea and Michigan. In 2021, GM initiated a global recall of all Bolts costing the company $1.8 billion and subsequently stopped production of the EV. GM remains committed to its electric vehicle ambitions, with plans to phase out gas-powered cars by 2035 and invest $35 billion in expanding its EV lineup.
As a result, several Chevrolet Bolt owners filed a lawsuit, in GM in 2020. The suit alleged that GM sold vehicles with defective batteries, leading to spontaneous fires in some cases.
Under the settlement, Bolt owners who installed specific software to address the battery issue can receive $1,400 in compensation. Those who sold or leased their vehicles before the software fix are eligible for a $700 payment.
In response to these concerns, automakers are actively working to improve battery technology and safety systems. Fire departments worldwide are also adapting their training and equipment to better handle EV fires.
Research and development efforts are ongoing, focusing on safer battery chemistries and more robust thermal management systems. Despite the challenges, the overall safety record of EVs remains strong, and they continue to play a crucial role in the transition to sustainable transportation.
As the landscape of EV fires continues to evolve, ongoing safety research and development remain vital to ensuring public confidence in this transformative technology.
