Wedoany.com Report on Feb 9th, As the number of electric vehicles in maritime transport increases, the risk of ship fires has drawn attention. In 2013, the German Federal Ministry of Transport pointed out that pure electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles might pose higher fire hazards. The ministry recommended that such vehicles should be stored in areas equipped with specialized detection and firefighting facilities, and warned that lithium-ion battery fires involve extremely high temperatures and release toxic gases.

In 2016, DNV-GL's analysis of ro-ro cargo ship deck fires reaffirmed the associated risks, calling for rapid activation of fire suppression systems and enhanced cargo securing. The report mentioned that cargo movement during transport could trigger thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries, a dangerous condition caused by overheating.

Although recent ro-ro ship fires have not directly involved electric vehicles, the U.S. Coast Guard has issued alerts regarding battery hazards, emphasizing the importance of proper storage. Accident reviews have shown that insufficient access to critical information has hindered the accumulation of safety experience.

Educational programs, such as lectures by Captain Jim Staples, cover the structure of lithium-ion batteries, their hazards, difficulties in extinguishing such fires, and methods for early detection using thermal imaging cameras. Staples stated, "There is a need to increase the transparency of investigations, particularly in fire incidents like those involving the Felicity Ace and Grimaldi Euroferry."

The Grimaldi Euroferry incident on February 17, 2022, resulted in injuries and property damage, continuing the trend of fires on the company's ro-ro vessels. Previous accidents have prompted stricter regulation of car batteries, which are often linked to short circuits and fires on board.

Maritime safety authorities are actively improving safety protocols for the maritime transport of electric vehicles. Multiple organizations and studies emphasize the need for better management of lithium-ion battery fire risks. Continuous research and experience sharing are crucial for enhancing maritime safety.