(www.MaritimeCyprus.com) The intensification of global warming and the consequent worldwide climate changes have become major issues, prompting continued international efforts to address these challenges. In response, countries have adopted stricter regulations to reduce emissions from internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) and are promoting the adoption of eco-friendly vehicles through policies such as EV subsidies.
According to the Global EV Outlook 2024, published by the International Energy Agency (IEA), the share of EVs sales in total global new car sales has risen from less than 5% in 2020 to 9% in 2021, 14% in 2022, and 18% in 2023, with expectations that this figure will exceed 20% in 2024. As EV sales grow rapidly, the number of EVs being loaded and transported on PCTCs for import and export is also rising significantly.
As the EV market expands, reports of EV fires covered in the media. These reports often emphasize the obstacles in extinguishing EV fires, pointing out that they require a substantial amount of time and water, and in some cases, the affected EV must be submerged in a water tank for effective and complete extinguishment.
Korean Register (KR) conducted a HAZID (Hazard Identification) analysis to assess key fire risks and related issues that could significantly impact fire safety on PCTCs during the transport and handling of electric vehicles (EVs). This analysis aimed to prevent EV fire incidents and minimize potential damage. Led by KR, the HAZID analysis involved experts from various fields, including PCTC operators, shipyards, and fire research institutes. Its purpose was to systematically identify potential hazards, risk scenarios, their causes and consequences, as well as existing safety measures and additional actions required to enhance safety. The analysis highlighted the need for the following measures:
First, a clear fire response strategy for EV fires on PCTCs should be established. Given the unique fire characteristics of lithium-ion batteries, it is expected that crew members alone will not be able to fully extinguish an EV fire. Therefore, the scope of external support from specialized firefighting personnel onshore must be carefully reviewed. Additionally, it is important to determine what fire response actions can be performed on board, considering the specific characteristics of the onboard fire suppression systems. Based on this, a comprehensive concept for EV fire response should be developed.
Second, collaboration among relevant stakeholders is necessary to mitigate the risk of EV fires on PCTCs. As global EV usage increases, the volume of EVs transported by sea will also rise, leading to higher fire risks. Currently, the IMO SSE Sub-Committee is reviewing amendments to SOLAS requirements for EV fire safety during ship construction.
Additionally, the IMO CCC Sub-Committee is considering revisions to the IMDG Code, including restrictions on the State of Charge(SoC) of batteries during EV transportation. Once these regulatory amendments are finalized and implemented, they are expected to enhance the safety of EV transportation.
This report, based on discussions during the HAZID analysis, examines the characteristics of EV fires on PCTCs. It summarizes key factors in ship design, construction, and operations to reduce the fire risks and minimize damage. As such, this report is recommended as a foundational resource for developing fire response strategies to ensure the safe maritime transport of EVs.
Download below the report from KR "Safe Maritime Transport of Electric Vehicles":
Source: KR
For more info on Lithium - Ion Batteries and the transportation of Electric Vehicles, click HERE
