GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Electric Vehicle Fire Statistics: Market Report & Data

Highlights: Electric Vehicle Fire Statistics

  • Electric Vehicle (EV) fires account for less than 1% of total vehicle fires.
  • From 2011 to 2017, there were 123 fire-related incidents involving electric vehicles in the US.
  • A 2017 report found that 4% of Tesla vehicle fires were caused by electric failure.
  • In China, 40 instances of New Energy Vehicle (NEV) fires were documented in the first six months of 2020.
  • The US Fire Administration notes a thermal runaway risk in 1 out of every 20 million Li-ion battery cells.
  • Vehicle fires, including EVs, accounted for roughly 20% of reported fires in the US in 2019.
  • Only 5% of total fires involving road vehicles in China in 2019 were related to electric vehicles.
  • From 2018 to 2020, there were 40 instances of Mercedes-Benz EQC fires across the world.
  • In 2020, electric vehicle fires accounted for only 0.1% of total vehicle fires in Norway.
  • Electric and hybrid vehicles together accounted for only 3% of car fires in the Netherlands in 2019.
  • Battery cell issues causing electric vehicle fires accounted for 77% of total EV fires in China in 2019.
  • A 2017 study found that lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles have a 1 in 10 million chance of causing a catastrophic fire.
  • As per the US National Fire Protection Association, fire departments attended to an average of 210,600 vehicle fires per year from 2014 to 2016, with EV fires making a small fraction of these.
  • In 2018, 54% of NEV fires in China happened while the vehicle was being driven.
  • In 2019, around 40% of electric vehicle fires in China took place in parking lots while the cars were stationary.
  • An SAE International paper found that frequency of electric vehicle fires was about 1 every 120 million miles travelled as compared to 1 every 26 million miles for gasoline vehicles.
  • In a study involving 1.77 million PHEVs and BEVs, the relative fire risk in the Nordic countries was found to be similar to that of fossil fuel-powered cars.

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Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly integrating into our daily lives, revolutionizing the automotive industry with their eco-friendly technology. However, alongside their numerous benefits, concerns regarding potential fire hazards in EVs have emerged. This blog post will dive into the depths of electric vehicle fire statistics, offering a clearer picture of the actual risks associated with them. We will explore studies and reports from reliable sources, comparing and analyzing the frequency and causes of fire incidents in electric vehicles against those in conventional gasoline vehicles. Comparisons like these will shed more light on the safety dynamics at play, and provide important insights for consumers, manufacturers, and policy makers alike.

The Latest Electric Vehicle Fire Statistics Unveiled

Electric Vehicle (EV) fires account for less than 1% of total vehicle fires.

Regarding Electric Vehicle Fire Statistics, an astute perspective sheds light on the fact that EV fires constitute less than 1% of total vehicle fires. This data point not only underscores the nascent safety standards that are intrinsic to the design and manufacture of EVs but also broadens our discussion to challenge widely held misconceptions about their risks. It allows us, readers and potential consumers alike, to dispel unfound fears about the susceptibility of electric vehicles to catch fire, thereby encouraging a considerable appreciation for their environmental benefits and reaffirming their reliability as a safe transportation alternative.

From 2011 to 2017, there were 123 fire-related incidents involving electric vehicles in the US.

Fanning the sparks of curiosity, the striking revelation of 123 fire-related incidents involving electric vehicles in the US from 2011 to 2017 illuminates the raw reality of potential risks associated with the adoption of this cutting-edge technology. The integrity of this figure further crystallizes in the discourse on Electric Vehicle Fire Statistics, as it frames a critical aspect that demands indispensable scrutiny. Essentially, amid the increasing allure of green energy vehicles, this statistic sets the impetus for comprehensive safety evaluations, nuanced discourse on regulatory standards, and proactive resolution upon the confluence of technology and safety.

A 2017 report found that 4% of Tesla vehicle fires were caused by electric failure.

This critically juxtaposed statistic furnishes a tangible and revealing perspective into the safety concerns surrounding electric vehicles. Grounded in factual evidence from 2017, it pinpoints that a surprising 4% of Tesla’s vehicle fires specifically arose due to electrical failure. Today’s informed consumers are deeply invested in understanding the risks associated with green technology, and hence the incorporation of this particular statistic provides an important facet for deliberation. As it stands, this figure serves as a potent compass guiding the dialogue about electric vehicle fire statistics, and Tesla’s ongoing endeavors towards safety optimization.

In China, 40 instances of New Energy Vehicle (NEV) fires were documented in the first six months of 2020.

Highlighting the statistic that, in China, 40 instances of New Energy Vehicle (NEV) fires were documented within the first six months of 2020 gives this blog post a global perspective on the Electric Vehicle Fire Statistics. This figure directly compares and contrasts to the incidents of NEV fires in other countries, enabling readers to understand the relative risk levels. The metric provides a view into the safety challenges that NEV manufacturers and regulators might need to address in China, one of the world’s largest electric vehicle markets, which could potentially affect the global electric mobility landscape.

The US Fire Administration notes a thermal runaway risk in 1 out of every 20 million Li-ion battery cells.

The US Fire Administration’s statistic underscores a significant yet often overlooked aspect of electric vehicle safety and usage— the thermal runaway risk found in 1 out of every 20 million Li-ion battery cells. Delving deeper into the echelons of electric vehicle fire statistics, this data compels us to question the inherent safety of electric vehicles and stimulate critical discussions on potential fire risks. Although the probability might seem minuscule prima facie, considering the billions of Li-ion cells in global circulation, this stands as a noteworthy factor, highlighting the necessity for tireless innovation and rigorous safety standards in the ever-expanding electric vehicle industry.

Vehicle fires, including EVs, accounted for roughly 20% of reported fires in the US in 2019.

The demonstration that approximately one-fifth of U.S. reported fires in 2019 sprang from vehicle-related incidents, inclusive of Electric Vehicles (EVs), is a critical focal point in our exploration of Electric Vehicle Fire Statistics. It provides a benchmark, enabling us to assess the severity of fire risks associated with all vehicle types and specifically electric vehicles. This understanding is central for safety advancements, facilitating policy-making discussions about firefighting preparedness, prevention measures, and even the designing of safer batteries or charging systems.

Only 5% of total fires involving road vehicles in China in 2019 were related to electric vehicles.

Shining a light on the safety concerns associated with electric vehicles, the mere 5% of total road vehicle-related fires in China in 2019 attributed to electric vehicles speaks volumes. It highlights that contrary to common misconceptions, electric cars are not significantly fire-prone than their combustible counterparts. This presents a unique perspective in the discourse of electric vehicle safety protocols fascinating both potential electric vehicle consumers and safety regulators and serving as a pivot point for further discussion on the maturity and safety of EV technology in the blog.

From 2018 to 2020, there were 40 instances of Mercedes-Benz EQC fires across the world.

Highlighting the statistic – ‘From 2018 to 2020, there were 40 instances of Mercedes-Benz EQC fires across the world’ – provides a crucial peek into the safety challenges that electric vehicles (EVs) could potentially face. It bolsters the discussion by adding weightage to the probing of electrical fault risks related to EVs. Focusing on a reputable brand like Mercedes-Benz also underscores that these risks are not restricted to lesser-known or low-range manufacturers. Consequently, this statistic strengthens the underpinning argument about the prospect and perception of global fire risks across the EV market, thereby sparking informed dialogue on the safety measures and standards the EV industry needs to adopt.

In 2020, electric vehicle fires accounted for only 0.1% of total vehicle fires in Norway.

Painting a vivid landscape of electric vehicle safety, the statistic – ‘In 2020, electric vehicle fires accounted for only 0.1% of total vehicle fires in Norway’, absorbs the limelight, casting an encouraging spotlight on the progressive safety dynamics of electric vehicles. Entwined within the fabric of a blog post on Electric Vehicle Fire Statistics, it dives into the core of the safety discussion, gradually dismantling myths enveloping electric vehicle fires. By portraying the minimal percentage of electric vehicle fires in the grand theater of vehicle mishaps, it solidifies the safety quotient of electric vehicles, providing a fresh perspective and effortlessly stirring a shift towards more sustainable and safer driving options.

Electric and hybrid vehicles together accounted for only 3% of car fires in the Netherlands in 2019.

Shedding light on the prevalence of electric and hybrid vehicle fires in the Netherlands, the statistic reveals a seemingly low incidence in 2019, with these vehicle types accounting for a mere 3% of total car fires. In a blog post addressing Electric Vehicle Fire Statistics, this nugget of information invites a discerning investigation into the safety of electric and hybrid vehicles compared to their fuel-based counterparts. It offers a foundation to unravel complexities surround electric vehicle fire incidents, addressing people’s general apprehensions and contributing to informed debates regarding the adoption and policies around such sustainable transport options. This statistic also provides a quantitative baseline that would enable us to monitor the progression and make year-by-year comparison in the future.

Battery cell issues causing electric vehicle fires accounted for 77% of total EV fires in China in 2019.

Illustrating the lion’s share of Electric Vehicle (EV) fires in China, the compelling figure of 77% attributed to battery cell problems brings to light a significant factor in EV safety for the year 2019. It intensifies the scrutiny on battery cell safety while implying an area demanding technological evolution and industrious research. In charting the course of electric vehicle fire scenarios, such critical data can shape the direction of our investigative narratives, policy recommendations, and consumer advisories. Therefore, it’s an unignorable statistical snapshot that alarms stakeholders, prompts for solutions, and adds values to discussions about the future of this emerging industry.

A 2017 study found that lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles have a 1 in 10 million chance of causing a catastrophic fire.

Honing in on the intriguing statistic from a 2017 study, we discover that the likelihood of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles sparking a catastrophic fire is a minute 1 in 10 million. This cogent piece of data offers an insightful perspective regarding the safety of Electric Vehicles (EVs), particularly in relation to concerns around fire risks. When considering this statistic, the remarkably low risk of fire in EVs showcases not only the advancements in battery technology, but also acts as a robust rebuttal to any exaggerated safety concerns. Thus, it reaffirms the safety credentials of electric vehicles, highlighting their comparative advantage in terms of safety over traditional fuel vehicles.

As per the US National Fire Protection Association, fire departments attended to an average of 210,600 vehicle fires per year from 2014 to 2016, with EV fires making a small fraction of these.

This compelling figure by the US National Fire Protection Association underscores a salient point in the discourse on electric vehicle fire statistics. With fire departments responding to an annual 210,600 vehicle fires on average from 2014 to 2016, and EV fires forming only a minuscule proportion of this figure, it conveys a reassuring message about the relative safety of electric vehicles. This sets the stage for a thought-provoking conversation on the risks associated with electric vehicle fires, offering a counter-narrative to the prevalent media focus on sporadic incidents of EV fires.

In 2018, 54% of NEV fires in China happened while the vehicle was being driven.

Taking a quick spin through the 2018 data, an startling revelation arises: more than half of the NEV (New Energy Vehicle) fires in China ignited while the vehicle was in motion. In a world where clean energy transportation solutions, such as electric vehicles, are storming the market, this statistic should pop open the eyes of manufacturers, safety regulators, and consumers alike. Not only does it indicate a potentially alarming safety concern, it implores an urgent call-to-action for meticulous scrutiny and investigation of fire-prone components, along with the development of enhanced preventive measures, and rigorous safety standard enforcement.

In 2019, around 40% of electric vehicle fires in China took place in parking lots while the cars were stationary.

Highlighting that approximately 40% of electric vehicle fires in China during 2019 occurred in stationary cars within parking lots underscores a critical concern within the broader context of Electric Vehicle Fire Statistics. This dramatic data point emphasizes not only the potential hazard of parked electric vehicles but also the significance of constant vigilance and safety measures even during periods of inactivity. It encourages further investigation into the causes behind these incidents, invites discussions around battery standards, parking lot infrastructure or charging protocols, and drives home the necessity of stringent safety measures, potentially shaping preventative strategies and influencing future regulatory policies in the electric vehicle industry.

An SAE International paper found that frequency of electric vehicle fires was about 1 every 120 million miles travelled as compared to 1 every 26 million miles for gasoline vehicles.

Highlighting the discoveries of an SAE International paper, the conversation around fire risks in electric vehicles, often hinted at in public discourse, takes a definitive turn. It confirms that the frequency of electric vehicle fires occurs approximately every 120 million miles traveled, contrasted starkly with gasoline vehicles which report a fire every 26 million miles. In this context, the statistic elegantly flips the script on perceived safety risks of electric vehicles, showcasing a markedly lower propensity for vehicular fires in electric models compared to their gasoline counterparts. This compelling figure furnishes a differential insight that advocates for electric vehicle safety and contributes significantly to a richer understanding of fire incident rates across different vehicle types.

In a study involving 1.77 million PHEVs and BEVs, the relative fire risk in the Nordic countries was found to be similar to that of fossil fuel-powered cars.

Drawing from a vast pool of data encompassing 1.77 million plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs), a compelling narrative emerges for those intrigued by the electric revolution in the automotive industry. Particularly, the study illuminates the fire risk associated with these trendsetting vehicles within the Nordic countries, revealing an unexpected parity with their fossil fuel-powered counterparts. The essence of this statistic lends credibility to the reliability and safety of electric vehicles, immediately quelling concerns and debunking myths around their propensity for fire-related incidents. Thus, in a broader context, this statistic meticulously exposes the raw reality of the fire risk, nudging the readership towards a balanced, informed perspective on electric vehicle usage and safety.

Conclusion

Based on the data, it is clear that the rate of electric vehicle fires is significantly lower than that of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. This illustrates that electric vehicles are not only environmentally friendly, but also promising in terms of safety. However, this does not mean we should underestimate the risk of electric vehicle fires. Adequate safety protocols, rigorous manufacturing standards, as well as comprehensive driver education play crucial roles to sustainably maintain these favourable statistics.

References

0. – https://www.www.ssb.no

1. – https://www.www.businesswire.com

2. – https://www.www.transportenvironment.org

3. – https://www.www.autoexpress.co.uk

4. – https://www.cen.acs.org

5. – https://www.financialpost.com

6. – https://www.chargedevs.com

7. – https://www.www.sae.org

8. – https://www.www.reuters.com

9. – https://www.nltimes.nl

10. – https://www.www.nfpa.org

11. – https://www.www.usfa.fema.gov

FAQs

How often do electric vehicle fires occur compared to traditional combustion engine car fires?

While exact rates can fluctuate, overall, electric vehicle fires occur less frequently than fires in traditional gasoline vehicles. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the odds of a gasoline car catching fire are about 1 in 42, whereas for electric vehicles, it's approximately 1 in 250.

Are electric vehicle fires more difficult to extinguish than conventional vehicle fires?

Yes, electric vehicle fires can be more challenging to extinguish because they often require large amounts of water or foam and the process may need to be repeated due to the possibility of reignition. Furthermore, responding firefighters must be trained in handling high-voltage batteries.

Is the risk of fire higher when electric vehicles are being charged?

Generally, the risk of fire is not significantly higher while an electric vehicle is being charged than while it is being operated. Proper charging practices and use of manufacturer-approved charging devices can minimize the risk.

What are common causes of electric vehicle fires?

Common causes can include thermal runaway, charge overloads, manufacturing defects, and crashes that damage the battery composite.

Are electric vehicles more likely to catch fire after a collision than conventional vehicles?

Statistically, electric vehicles are not more likely to catch fire than conventional vehicles after a collision. Both vehicle types have specific vulnerabilities, but studies indicate that the risk is slightly lower for electric vehicles. However, if an electric vehicle's battery is damaged, it could potentially lead to a fire. The incident rate can vary based on factors such as vehicle model and crash severity.

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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