Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Provides EV Fire Response Training For Bomba

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) revealed it recently conducted a special yet comprehensive training programme with local firefighters and rescuers from Bomba centred on EV fires and incidents.

Leading luxury automaker Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) revealed earlier today via a press release that it recently conducted a special training session with the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia – better known as Bomba – centred on electric vehicle (EV) fires and incidents.

This initiative is timely as it corresponds with the increasing number of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) currently marketed and sold in Malaysia. In fact, up to 6,617 units of BEVs have been shifted in the first half (1H) of this year, revealed the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) earlier today too.

“MBM is committed to supporting the country's aspirations to becoming an Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) hub,” read the firm’ statement. It adds that this recent initiative reinforces its corporate responsibility as an EV maker as well.

MBM notes that the recent training session held at its Training Academy in Puchong saw over 40 Bomba firefighters and resucers participate.

The effort saw MBM conduct a comprehensive EV emergency training programme for the Bomba firefighters and rescuers at its state-of-the-art Training Academy located in Puchong, Selangor. 

According to MBM, said programme was specially devised to meet this crucial need by offering essential information about the technology within electric vehicles and outlining the industry’s best practices for managing EVs in various challenging scenarios.

More than 40 Bomba personnel participated in the training, which covered theoretical aspects as well plus hands-on practical experience to safely manage EV incidents. This includes identification of EV models, high voltage vehicle and battery handling, battery scanner usage, fire blanket application, emergency protocols and the use of the Mercedes-Benz Rescue Assist App.

Additionally, training was also provided on the Mercedes-Benz Rescue Assist App, which enables responders to access critical vehicle information quickly. Rescuers even learned how to locate and scan QR codes, which enables them to obtain vehicle-specific data promptly, even in scenarios where the QR codes are inaccessible.

Besides theoretical briefings, the training session also encompassed hands-on practical training, as well as familiarisation with the Mercedes-Benz Rescue Assist App that enables rescuers to access information quickly via QR codes.

“This not only enhances the safety of both responders and vehicle occupants but also minimises response time and maximises operational efficiency," said Amanda Zhang, CEO and president of Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia.

“Extending this expertise to Bomba, aligns with our commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and service," adds Edmin Naidoo, Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia’s VP of Customer Services.

“It is crucial for emergency responders to be trained on the safety procedures for handling high-voltage vehicles and batteries, and to use battery scanners to evaluate battery conditions,” emphasised Bomba’s PgKB I Mohd Tilmizi bin Mustapa, who was also present for the training.

Tilmizi further noted that specialised training as such reduces risks during incidents and enhances both the efficiency and safety of Bomba teams. In turn, this also allows them to manage situations effectively while minimising hazards to themselves and the public.