EV Fires Rare But Tricky To Tackle - JBPM

Electric vehicles (EVs) are statistically far less likely to catch fire than petrol or hybrid cars but when they do, the fires are much harder to put out.

JBPM director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad said studies from the United States and Europe consistently show EVs catch fire far less frequently than traditional vehicles.

“Data shows there are 1,530 fires per 100,000 gasoline vehicles and 3,475 per 100,000 hybrid vehicles, compared to just one out of every 100,000 EVs,” he said, citing data from EV FireSafe, an Australian company that tracks EV-related incidents worldwide.

“Generally, there is less risk, but if a battery catches fire, it is more difficult to extinguish,” he added, noting that the most effective method is to flood the battery with water.

Hisham also reminded owners to take precautions

“If there is smoke, please exit the car immediately. If the charging does not reach 100% when charging, please refer to a service centre," he stressed.

The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has recorded 27 EV and hybrid fire cases between 2023 and July this year, averaging about 10 incidents annually.

Deputy Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu said JBPM treats EV fires as a priority due to the unique risks involved.

“JBPM considers EV fires one of the biggest challenges due to the high level of risk during firefighting operations. The use of fire blankets is among the most effective methods for extinguishing electric vehicle fires, in addition to water and foam,” she told the Dewan Negara, as reported by The Star.

Experts say most EV fires are caused by lithium-ion battery failures, often starting with thermal runaway when one cell overheats and triggers a chain reaction.