Hyundai Glovis, the shipping unit of South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Group, has announced its plans to introduce a fire suppression device specifically designed to extinguish electric vehicle (EV) battery fires on its car-carrier vessels. This move comes in response to growing concerns over the safety of electric vehicle batteries, particularly following a series of spontaneous fires in the last year.
Car-carrying vessels have the capacity to transport thousands of vehicles at a time, all tightly parked next to each other, making the risk of fires a significant concern. In response to this, Hyundai Glovis has developed the EV Drill Lance, a purpose-designed tool that can be used in case of a fire. The device drills through the underside of the vehicle to reach the battery pack and then sprays it to extinguish the fire. It utilizes water from the ships’ fire hydrants, which is fed through a hose to power a turbine that drives the drill and puts out the fire.
Initially, the company plans to install these devices on the 32 car carriers it owns directly before making them available on its chartered vessels. With over 90 car carriers in operation worldwide as of the end of 2023, this initiative aims to enhance the safety measures onboard Hyundai Glovis vessels.
The EV Drill Lance is a critical addition to Hyundai Glovis’ safety protocols, ensuring that any potential battery fires on board can be quickly and effectively addressed. By investing in innovative solutions like this, the company demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its operations.
As electric vehicles continue to gain popularity and become more prevalent on the roads, it is crucial for companies like Hyundai Glovis to stay ahead of the curve in terms of safety measures. The introduction of the EV Drill Lance is a proactive step towards addressing the unique challenges posed by EV battery fires and underscores Hyundai Glovis’ dedication to maintaining the highest standards of safety in its shipping operations.
Overall, Hyundai Glovis’ decision to introduce the EV Drill Lance reflects its commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability in the ever-evolving automotive industry. By taking proactive measures to address potential risks associated with electric vehicle batteries, the company sets a precedent for safety standards in the shipping sector.
