The Burning Questions: U.S. report says first responders not equipped to combat EV fires, fires could reignite up to 24 hours post-collision

Washington, D.C. ⁠— A national investigation in the United States has revealed that first responders remain undertrained to combat electric vehicle fires, according to an ABC News affiliate. 

In a survey of U.S. fire departments, 31 percent admitted they had ‘no hybrid electric/electric vehicle incident training,’ while 72 percent said the lack of awareness on hybrid/electric vehicles was an obstacle when responding to accidents. 

The report said no OEMs currently provide specific instructions for minimizing dangers posed by the risks of battery reignition. 

The investigation also showed the threat of an EV fire reigniting remains for up to a full day post-accident; a key detail for collision centres that may repair the vehicles.