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MUMBAI, 12 August 2023: As the electric vehicle (EV) industry witnesses rapid growth, concerns over EV fires have taken center stage. The increasing prevalence of electric vehicle fires has raised alarm bells among manufacturers and potential buyers. With the global shift towards electric transportation, ensuring electric vehicle safety has become a critical priority.
EV Fire Incidents and India’s Response
In recent years, a series of EV fire incidents in India has prompted both the government and EV manufacturers to address safety concerns with utmost seriousness. These incidents have necessitated the implementation of safety measures, including the use of fire protection products and revised testing standards for batteries, battery management, and cells. Notably, battery-related issues have been identified as a significant factor contributing to past fire occurrences.
Understanding the Nature of EV Fires
Electric vehicle fires differ from traditional automotive fires, primarily due to the phenomenon of thermal runaway within battery cells. This hazardous chain reaction is triggered by factors such as high temperatures resulting from thermal or mechanical failures, short circuits, or electrochemical misuse. The consequences are severe, releasing over 40 poisonous gases under intense pressure, leading to rapid and multiple explosions.
Innovative Solution for EV Fire Safety
The challenge of extinguishing lithium battery fires is considerable, often requiring substantial amounts of water to suppress a single battery pack fire. Addressing this critical issue, Bharati Fire Engineers, a Mumbai-based fire safety expert firm with 50 years of experience, has introduced a groundbreaking solution known as “FireFite Lithex” for battery fire safety.According to Mr Jai Gosar, CEO of Bharati Fire Engineers, “The FireFite Lithex Extinguisher is uniquely designed to combat lithium battery fires and metal fires, providing effective extinguishing where traditional methods fall short.”
Cutting-Edge Technology for Enhanced Safety
Mr Gosar explains, “This extinguisher utilizes an innovative technology developed in collaboration with AVD, UK, called aqueous vermiculite dispersion (AVD). This fire-extinguishing solution employs both fixed and mobile delivery methods to successfully suppress lithium-ion battery fires.” Notably, FireFite Lithex has been put to the test and proven successful by prestigious organizations such as DRDO, CFEES, and prominent EV manufacturers including Tata Motors and Ola ELectric.
Conclusion
As the electric vehicle industry continues its upward trajectory, addressing safety concerns associated with EV fires remains a paramount task. With incidents shedding light on the hazards unique to lithium battery fires, innovative solutions like FireFite Lithex are essential for bolstering EV fire safety. As stakeholders collaborate to ensure the security of electric vehicles and their users, advancements like these are a crucial step towards a safer and more sustainable electric mobility landscape.
Image credit: popularmechanics
