A colossal fire erupted from an all-electric Tesla Semi-truck on a major freeway in Northern California. In the early hours of August 19, the truck was heading east out of Sacramento when it collided with a traffic marker affixed to a metal post on a curve. The impact caused the semi-truck to veer off the freeway, striking several trees as it descended a hill into the forest.
Thankfully, the driver of the Tesla Semi Fire escaped unharmed. However, the collision ignited a fire in the truck’s massive 900kWh lithium-ion battery. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, including a Tesla specialist to assess the EV’s systems for added safety. Photographs from the site reveal towering flames piercing through the trees just off the freeway, presenting a significant fire threat.
Firefighters battled tirelessly to extinguish the inferno. They used approximately 50,000 gallons of water and even called in an aircraft to drop fire retardant chemicals. The plane’s intervention was crucial to counteract toxic fumes emanating from the wreckage. The freeway was closed immediately after first responders arrived and remained shut for about 16 hours, reopening only the following evening.
Challenge with EV fires is the intensity and heat they generate
While electric vehicles account for a smaller percentage of vehicle fires compared to gas-powered cars, EV fires often receive more media attention. According to data from the National Transportation Safety Board evaluated by Auto Insurance EZ, EVs represent about 5% of vehicle fires, whereas gasoline vehicles make up around 60%. The heightened exposure might make incidents seem more frequent than they are.
One challenge with EV fires is the intensity and heat they generate. Once an EV battery ignites, it burns much hotter than a traditional vehicle. In a 2021 incident involving a Tesla vehicle fire, firefighters needed 40 times more water to extinguish the flames compared to a gasoline car, according to The Hill. The battery’s location—shielded by titanium and situated beneath the vehicle—makes it difficult for responders to access and combat the fire effectively.
First responders are adapting to these challenges with new methods and technologies. For instance, a new firefighting compound is in development to separate oxygen from flames more efficiently. Coldcut Systems offers a water lance cutting tool designed for better battery penetration, even mounting it on a modified Toyota Hilux to tackle EV fires on any terrain.
Despite these advancements, concerns about EV fires remain a hurdle for some potential buyers. Experts note that worries over fire risks are among the reasons why more people haven’t transitioned to electric cars. As technology improves and firefighting techniques evolve, authorities hope to mitigate these fears and enhance safety for both drivers and first responders.
The incident underscores the importance of continued research and innovation in EV safety measures. With the rise of electric vehicles on the roads, addressing these challenges is more crucial than ever.
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