Renault claims this method is particularly effective in stopping thermal runaway—a dangerous chain reaction where battery cells ignite uncontrollably, often burning for hours
As electric vehicle (EV) adoption grows, automakers and battery manufacturers are working to address one of the industry’s biggest concerns—the risk of battery fires. French carmaker Renault has introduced a new solution called Fireman Access, designed to help first responders extinguish EV fires more quickly and efficiently.
Unlike conventional firefighting methods that require extended cooling periods, Fireman Access enables responders to put out a burning EV battery in roughly the same time as a combustion engine vehicle. The system features an adhesive disc inside the high-voltage battery pack, positioned over a dedicated opening. In the event of a fire, water pressure from an external hose dislodges the disc, allowing water to flood the battery pack and cool all cells at once.
Renault claims this method is particularly effective in stopping thermal runaway—a dangerous chain reaction where battery cells ignite uncontrollably, often burning for hours. The technology is already integrated into new fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles sold by Renault, Dacia, and Mobilize, Renault’s sub-brand for small electric quadricycles. In line with its open innovation strategy, Renault has also made Fireman Access available for free licensing, allowing other automakers to adopt the system.
According to Renault, the solution can extinguish EV fires within minutes while reducing water consumption by up to ten times. While research suggests that EV fires are statistically rarer than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle fires, they are significantly harder to control when they do occur. Standard firefighting techniques often require thousands of litres of water and can take hours to fully extinguish a burning battery pack.
Growing Efforts To Improve EV Fire Safety
Renault’s innovation is part of a broader industry push to enhance fire prevention and suppression technologies for EVs. Battery manufacturers and researchers worldwide are exploring various solutions to mitigate fire risks.
Last year, South Korean battery giant LG Chem unveiled a safety layer thinner than a human hair, designed to prevent thermal runaway altogether. Additionally, scientists in South Korea have developed a lithium-metal battery with a solid polymer electrolyte, which incorporates a fire-prevention layer to stop combustion before it starts.
All modern EVs are equipped with advanced thermal management systems to regulate battery temperatures and prevent overheating. However, continued advancements in fire prevention and suppression technologies remain crucial—not only to enhance safety but also to boost consumer confidence in electric mobility. As EV adoption accelerates, ensuring that battery technology is both reliable and secure will be key to wider public acceptance.
