Concerns Rise Over Electric Vehicles After Fire Incidents

circular connection
Sep 1, 2024
2 min read

Updated: Oct 31

A recent basement fire in South Korea has reignited concerns over the safety of electric vehicles (EVs).

Black car on fire in parking garage, flames visible near driver's side. Silver car nearby. Charging station in background.

Image: Geumsan Fire Station

The incident, which took place in a residential building, has drawn attention to the potential risks associated with EVs, particularly when it comes to battery safety and fire hazards.

The fire, believed to have started from an EV charging in the basement, quickly spread, causing significant damage to the building. While no fatalities were reported, the incident has sparked widespread anxiety, especially among those living in high-density urban areas where EVs are increasingly popular.

Black Tesla car charging at a station with "TESLA" signage. Marked EV parking space with Korean text. Urban setting, gray paved lot.

Image: Pexels/DaeYeoung Ahn

Here are some reports of other fire incidents with EV:

Yahoo - Tesla Cybertruck Catches Fire After Hitting Hydrant, Burns for 90 Min
The Korea Times - EV fires heighten concerns: Tesla, Mercedes-Benz accidents add to alarm
The Straits Times - EV fire cases rise with growing adoption of such cars
CBS News - Tesla Sedan Burns For 4 Hours After Crash, Fire Near Fillmore

So, Are EVs Safe?

Experts point out that while EVs are generally safe, lithium-ion batteries—the power source for most EVs—can pose a fire risk if they are damaged, improperly maintained, or exposed to extreme conditions. Interestingly, research shows that EVs are statistically less likely to catch fire than conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

Firefighter in protective gear battles intense car fire at night, surrounded by dramatic flames and smoke, creating a tense scene.

Image: Pexels/jane grn

However, according to EV FireSafe, when EV battery fires do occur, they require more water to extinguish, can burn almost three times hotter, and are more likely to reignite compared to fires in ICE vehicles. These factors make EV fires particularly challenging for emergency responders and heighten public concern.

In response to the incident, authorities are considering new safety measures, including more stringent building codes for areas where EVs are charged and increased scrutiny of battery safety standards. This event has also prompted discussions about the need for improved emergency response procedures tailored to the unique challenges posed by EV-related fires.

Firefighter in orange helmet inspects charred cars in dimly lit parking garage. Water on the floor reflects lights, creating a somber atmosphere.

Image: The Korea Times/Yonhap

As the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow globally, incidents like the South Korean basement fire highlight the importance of addressing safety concerns to ensure that the shift to greener transportation does not come at the cost of public safety.