Fires in electric vehicles (EVs) can be challenging to put out for a number of reasons.

First off, EVs frequently feature sizable battery packs that can hold a lot of energy. When these battery packs malfunction or are damaged, they can emit flames and extremely high temperatures.

Second, compared to the battery chemistry utilised in conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, the battery chemistry employed in EVs is typically more reactive and prone to thermal runaway. In battery cells, a process known as thermal runaway occurs in which one increase in temperature prompts subsequent increases, which in turn cause the release of combustible gases and the possibility of a fire.

Thirdly, burning EV components like lithium-ion batteries and high-voltage cables may release harmful gases. Firefighters may find it challenging to approach the burning car due to these pollutants.

Fourth, firefighters and other first responders may be at risk of electrocution from the high-voltage systems in EVs. It may be challenging to safely approach the vehicle and put out the fire as a result.

Fifth, it may be challenging to reach the fire’s cause due to the design of EVs. Firefighters can more easily access and put out any flames in classic ICE vehicles because the engine compartment is typically near the front of the vehicle. But in EVs, the battery pack is normally situated beneath the vehicle’s floor.

Generally speaking, EV fires are difficult to put out due to a combination of big, high-energy battery packs, reactive battery chemistry, poisonous gases, the risk of electrocution, and restricted access to the fire’s cause.

Firefighters and other first responders can take a number of precautions to put out EV fires and lessen the risks associated.

Utilizing a customised fire suppression system made for EVs is one strategy. These devices cool the battery pack to prevent thermal runaway and put out the fire using a combination of water, foam, and other substances. These systems can be remotely operated and are normally located on the outside of the car. Another strategy is to put out the flames and stop the chemical processes happening inside the battery pack by using a dry chemical fire extinguisher. However, it’s critical to utilise the right kind. For instance, a Class D fire extinguisher, which smothers the flames with dry powder, should be used to put out fires caused by lithium-ion batteries. Disconnecting the vehicle’s high-voltage systems is also crucial to avoid electrocution and reduce the possibility of subsequent fires. The high-voltage cables can be severed or a specialist high-voltage disconnect tool can be used to accomplish this. In order to get rid of any poisonous vapours and safeguard the firefighters and other first responders, it’s crucial to ventilate the area. To do this, you can open windows and doors, use fans, or instal a dedicated ventilation system. In some circumstances, it can be required to utilise a controlled burn to release the battery’s stored energy or to let the fire burn itself out. This should only be used as a last resort because it may endanger the neighbourhood and be ineffective at putting out the fire. In addition to these strategies, it’s critical that first responders like firefighters take part in specialised training on how to approach and put out EV fires safely. This instruction should cover the precise dangers and risks involved, as well as how to employ specialised tools and techniques.

In general, putting out EV fires calls for a combination of specialized tools and techniques, as well as appropriate instruction and knowledge of the particular dangers and risks involved. These recommendations will help firefighters and other first responders put out EV fires safely while safeguarding both the public and themselves