In the wake of a significant underground garage fire, South Korean officials are stepping up efforts to enhance electric vehicle (EV) safety. The incident, which took place on August 1, saw a Mercedes-Benz EV spontaneously catch fire, resulting in the damage or destruction of approximately 140 vehicles and forcing residents to evacuate their homes. The blaze took eight hours to fully extinguish, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures.
Responding to this alarming event and similar occurrences, the South Korean government, led by the vice environment minister, is contemplating new safety regulations for EVs. One of the key proposals includes mandating car manufacturers to disclose the brands of batteries used in their electric vehicles. This transparency aims to ensure better safety standards and facilitate quicker responses in case of future incidents.
Representatives from the transport and industry ministries, along with the national fire agency, participated in the recent meeting to discuss these potential regulations. The government plans to announce the new safety rules soon, signaling a proactive approach to EV safety.
Further discussions are scheduled for Tuesday, where the transport ministry will engage with major automakers such as Hyundai Motor Group, Mercedes-Benz Korea, and Volkswagen Group Korea. These talks will focus on the proposed battery disclosure requirements. As of now, neither the ministry nor the automakers have provided immediate comments on the forthcoming regulations.
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S. Korea considers new EV safety rules after underground garage fire
cgtn.com
