The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) has released an important report entitled “Safe Carriage of Electric Vehicles.” This document focuses on the critical topic of transporting electric vehicles (EVs) on Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) vessels, especially in light of growing safety concerns regarding onboard EV fires. As the number of EVs transported by sea continues to rise, there is a pressing need for the industry to enhance its preparedness for detecting, preventing, and responding to fire incidents aboard ships.
Currently, there are no international regulations specifically governing the safe transport of EVs. While some national and regional organizations have issued guidelines, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is still in the process of creating mandatory regulations aimed for completion by 2027.
The MTF report provides critical insights into the nature of EV fires and suggests necessary considerations to ensure their safe transport. Key takeaways from the report include the need for early detection of heated EV batteries, which can be facilitated through Battery Management Systems.
Additionally, the report addresses precautions against explosions resulting from flammable gases during thermal runaway incidents, emphasizing the importance of explosion-proof equipment on vessels. Fire protection measures highlighted in the report include the isolation of fires, cooling of EVs, and enhanced structural fire protections for safe crew evacuation.
The report advises the deployment of portable firefighting equipment at the onset of a fire and underscores the significance of maintaining vessel stability during firefighting operations. It also emphasizes the importance of training and enhancing Safety Management Systems to adequately prepare for unique challenges posed by EVs and EV fires.
Lars Lippuner from the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency remarks that this report is a vital step toward improving the safety of transporting electric vehicles. Hiroaki Sakashita, President & CEO of ClassNK, also stresses the need for enhanced safety measures to protect crews, ships, and cargoes, marking this report as a crucial starting point in developing safe transport practices for EVs.