Hyundai Mobis, South Korea’s largest automotive components manufacturer, made headlines this week with the announcement of a groundbreaking technology aimed at enhancing the safety of electric vehicle (EV) batteries. The company unveiled a new system designed to automatically extinguish fires in EV batteries, addressing a growing concern within the industry.
The need for improved EV battery safety was highlighted by a series of incidents in South Korea last year, including a significant blaze in an apartment car park that resulted in the destruction of over 100 vehicles. In response to this, Hyundai Mobis developed a system that goes beyond just delaying thermal runaway by using heat-resistant materials. The new technology is capable of preventing fires from occurring in the first place, offering a significant advancement in EV battery safety.
Global markets such as Europe, China, and India have implemented regulations requiring thermal runaway in EV batteries to be delayed by at least five minutes after ignition, with some countries moving towards preventing thermal runaway entirely. Hyundai Mobis’ new battery system assembly (BSA) with cell-level fire extinguishing capabilities is designed to meet these stringent standards and is expected to be integrated into next-generation BSAs for global markets.
The innovative BSA features a battery management system (BMS) and hardware equipped with a fire extinguishing device and specialized battery casing. Sensors within the system collect data on temperature, pressure, and voltage, which is analyzed in real-time to detect any abnormalities. The software then makes rapid and accurate decisions to address any issues within the battery system, automatically spraying the fire extinguishing agent when necessary.
The fire extinguishing agent, stored in a container with five times the capacity of a standard home fire extinguisher, is a substance known for its cooling, insulation, and permeability properties. Notably, the agent is environmentally friendly and safe for human contact. Park Yong Jun, vice president of Hyundai Mobis’ Battery System R&D Group, emphasized the company’s commitment to developing advanced battery systems that exceed global safety standards and meet the evolving needs of the market.
In addition to the new fire extinguishing technology, Hyundai Mobis has also introduced a material called pulsating heat pipe, designed to prevent batteries from overheating. Composed of an aluminum alloy and refrigerant, this material can effectively lower the internal temperature of the battery system, even during rapid charging. The company is actively working towards bringing this innovative material to market, further enhancing the safety and performance of EV batteries.
Overall, Hyundai Mobis’ latest advancements in EV battery safety demonstrate a proactive approach to addressing industry challenges and setting new standards for battery technology. By integrating cutting-edge hardware and software solutions, the company is poised to lead the way in developing next-generation battery systems that prioritize safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
