Korea may install extra firefighting resources near charging stations after explosive EV fire in parking garage
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On August 1st, a Mercedes-Benz electric vehicle (EV) had an explosive fire development in an underground parking lot at an apartment complex in Incheon, South Korea, injuring 23 people, including a firefighter and several children.
According to the news site Korea JoongAng Daily, the fire started at 6:15 a.m. and took eight hours to extinguish. CCTV footage showed the white Mercedes EQE sedan exploding shortly after emitting smoke. (See the CCTV video by following the link above).
A total of 177 emergency personnel were deployed to the scene. Their efforts were reportedly slowed down by the narrow pathways leading to the underground seat of the fire.
The incident led to 103 people being evacuated and 106 rescued. Approximately 140 nearby cars were damaged. Authorities are investigating the exact cause of the fire, with collaboration from Mercedes-Benz Korea.
Twenty-one people, including seven children under 10 and a firefighter who experienced dizziness, were hospitalized after inhaling smoke from the explosion.
EV was not being charged at time of fire
Surveillance footage captured smoke emanating from the vehicle moments before it erupted into flames. Some Koran media describe the fire development as an actual explosion.
According to firefighters, the car was not being charged when the explosion occurred, the Korea Times reports.
Lithium-ion batteries are known for their high sensitivity to elevated temperatures and inherent flammability. Due to their high energy density, fires involving these batteries can spread rapidly and can be difficult to extinguish without specialized knowledge and equipment.
Korean authorities to install extra firefighting resources near charging stations
Research indicates that most lithium-ion battery fires occur during charging (which wasn't the case with the Incheon incident). Other potential causes include product defects or additional factors.
As electric vehicle (EV) numbers rise nationwide in South Korea, so do concerns about the safety of their batteries.
To address these concerns and prevent similar incidents, a group of lawmakers, led by Rep. Song Eon-seog of the ruling People Power Party, proposed a bill on Friday.
The bill aims to enhance firefighting resources near EV charging stations in parking lots.