Measures against EV fires
Kang Seung-woo
As public unease mounts over the recent electric vehicle (EV) fires, the government is scrambling to find countermeasures. Yet, there is growing skepticism about whether these measures will prove effective in the near term.
In response to the escalating crisis, the government has decided to recommend that carmakers voluntarily disclose battery brand information for all EVs sold in Korea. This decision follows two days of intense discussions held earlier this week. While a comprehensive set of measures is expected to be unveiled next month, there are concerns that such steps may fall short of addressing the core issues.
The recent incident on Aug. 1, where a Mercedes-Benz EQE sedan ignited in an underground parking lot in Incheon, causing extensive damage to approximately 140 vehicles, has heightened public scrutiny. The controversy intensified due to the fact that the battery in question was from Chinese manufacturer Farasis Energy, sparking demands among EV drivers for more transparency regarding battery brands.
The call for battery brand disclosure stems from the belief that increased transparency could drive manufacturers to prioritize safety in response to consumer concerns.
Indeed, the European Union has already mandated that starting in 2026, EV manufacturers must disclose battery supplier information to consumers. Reflecting this trend, Hyundai Motor took proactive steps by publishing battery manufacturer details on its website last week, followed by its affiliate Kia as well as BMW Korea, which became the first import car company here to do so. Mercedes-Benz belatedly revealed its battery suppliers.
However, it is crucial to recognize that battery fires are not confined to specific manufacturers. Therefore, while the disclosure of battery information may foster greater accountability, it is not a panacea for preventing fire incidents.
Additionally, there have been discussions about implementing measures to prevent EV overcharging and mandate the installation of charging stations aboveground. Yet, these proposals could lead to significant consumer inconvenience, as the charging rate is closely tied to travel range. Moreover, many newly constructed apartment buildings are designed with limited access to aboveground areas, complicating the practical feasibility of such installations.
This highlights the urgent need to focus on enhancing battery safety and related components. Industry experts point to dendrite formation as the primary cause of battery fires. In a typical battery, the anode and cathode are separated by a thin membrane, but lithium metal can form dendrite-like structures that, if they breach the membrane, may cause short circuits and fires.
In that regard, they argue that manufacturers should implement safety measures from the production stage, such as using extinguishing agents and enhancing heat transfer prevention in the battery pack to address potential fires or thermal runaway.
Furthermore, there is a growing demand for advancing battery management systems. These systems are crucial for monitoring battery current, voltage and temperature, ensuring optimal performance and providing early warnings of potential anomalies.
Given the current technological limitations, eliminating the risk of battery fires remains a significant challenge. While proposed solutions often focus on indirect measures, which can be difficult to implement effectively, a comprehensive approach is necessary. This includes investing in new technologies to enhance battery safety in the long term, while simultaneously developing infrastructure to address immediate risks.
While the government's recent measures represent a step in the right direction, a multifaceted strategy involving technological innovation and practical infrastructure development will be essential in safeguarding against the risks associated with EVs.
The writer is the business desk editor at The Korea Times.