Concerns Rise Over EV Fires During Flooding

Australia is actively addressing the risks associated with lithium-ion battery fires in electric vehicles (EVs) as their importation rises, especially following a recent Port Operations Committee meeting that emphasized the urgency for effective response protocols. Experts discussed the unique challenges posed by lithium-ion batteries, which can lead to fires that are difficult to extinguish through conventional means. Meanwhile, in the Southeast U.S., Hurricane Helene has highlighted the dangers of EVs in flood conditions, with incidents of EV fires reported as floodwaters cause short circuits in batteries. Residents were warned to avoid charging EVs during the storm and to keep them at a safe distance from combustibles. Authorities, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, have urged EV owners to relocate their vehicles to higher ground ahead of storms. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is conducting ongoing research into the fire risks posed by submerging EVs, particularly after hurricanes.