31-01-2023, 10:47 AM
The subject of EV battery fire risk is one that is commonly levelled against EVs. This article gives a more balanced and knowledgable summary of the risks involved but essentially EVs are far less likely to catch fire than a fossil fueled car (which includes hybrids) and the ignition is far slower in EV batteries than for hydrocarbon based fires so more opportunity for occupants to exit the vehicle safely.
Also worth noting that battery technology is advancing rapidly with LiFePO4 becoming the most common now with solid state promising to dominate in the coming years. LiFePO4 is far less prone to thermal runaway (fire) than previous battery chemistries.
This diagram shows what characteristics are pros and cons in the various battery chemistries in current use. In addition sodium based battery technology is gaining traction currently and has more superior safety characteristics again. More suited to stationary applications like home storage of PV generation but work is ongoing so automotive use is likely at some stage.
Also worth noting that battery technology is advancing rapidly with LiFePO4 becoming the most common now with solid state promising to dominate in the coming years. LiFePO4 is far less prone to thermal runaway (fire) than previous battery chemistries.
This diagram shows what characteristics are pros and cons in the various battery chemistries in current use. In addition sodium based battery technology is gaining traction currently and has more superior safety characteristics again. More suited to stationary applications like home storage of PV generation but work is ongoing so automotive use is likely at some stage.