Hybrid fires vs EV fires
At Fire Isolator, we have spoken a lot about EV car fires. But what about hybrid fires? Is a hybrid fire more likely than an EV fire? What is the difference between these two? And are Hybrids indeed more likely to catch fire than an EV? You can read it all here!
What is the difference between a hybrid and an EV?
The difference between a hybrid car and an electric vehicle lies in their power sources and fuel usage. Hybrids combine both gasoline and electricity for improved fuel efficiency. EV’s however rely solely on electricity.
How many hybrid fires have there been?
A recent study by US insurer, AutoinsuranceEZ found that hybrid cars had the worst fire record, while EVs were the least likely type of car to catch fire. Hybrid cars had 3474.5 fires per 100,000 sale; petrol cars had 1,529.9 fires per 100,000 sales and EVs had just 25.1 fires per 100,000 sales.
How many EVs have caught fire?
Australian firm EV FireSafe tracks passenger electric vehicle battery fires worldwide. From 2010 to June 2023, its database records 393 verified EV fires globally.
Why are hybrid cars more likely to catch fire?
According to AutoinsuranceEZ’s research, hybrid cars stand out as the most risky among fuel types when it comes to fire hazards. But why? Well, it turns out that the unique combination of a traditional gasoline engine and a high-powered electric battery system in hybrid vehicles is the primary problem.
This interesting blend of power sources, although innovative and efficient, unintentionally generates a significant amount of heat. While this heat is crucial for the operation of hybrid cars, it also poses a potential threat to the integrity of the lithium-ion battery.
When a cell of this Lithium-ion battery overheats, it can enter a process called ‘thermal runaway’. This basically means that the cells keep making themselves hotter and hotter, very quickly. They ignite the other cells in the battery, making the whole battery catch fire. Lithium batteries can even reignite after they’ve been put out.
Is a fire in a hybrid car more dangerous?
No, not necessarily. While a fire in a hybrid car, which contains gasoline in addition to an electric battery system, presents unique challenges, it doesn’t inherently make it more dangerous than a fire in an electric vehicle (EV).
Does the Fire Isolator concept also isolate hybrid fires?
In a previous article, we looked into the complexities of extinguishing electric vehicle (EV) fires. It’s worth noting that extinguishing a fire in a hybrid car, equipped with two distinct engines, presents its own set of challenges. Fortunately, our Fire Isolator products are versatile solutions that cater to all electric vehicles, including hybrids.
When faced with a hybrid car fire, the primary goal remains the same: minimizing collateral damage. Experienced specialists, who have battled EV fires, have determined that the most effective approach involves containing the fire while safeguarding the surroundings.
The Fire Isolator Concept of three key elements that, when used together, offer the best solution for addressing EV or hybrid car fires in ferry environments or parking facilities.