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