The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Friday it had investigated a fire that occurred this spring, after the General Motors Co.’s Volt extended-range electric vehicle underwent testing for its five-star crash safety rating.
The test damaged the Volt's lithium-ion battery but the exact reason for the fire is not yet clear. By the time the blaze broke out, the vehicle had been sitting in storage for weeks.
The agency said in a statement that it has asked other manufacturers who make electric cars or who plan to do so for information on how they handle lithium-ion batteries.
Despite taking this step, NHTSA officials said they do not believe the Volt or other electric vehicles are at greater risk for fire than gasoline-powered engines.
In a written statement, Jim Federico, General Motors chief engineer for electric vehicles, said, “First and foremost, I want to make this very clear: the Volt is a safe car”.
“We are working cooperatively with NHTSA as it completes its investigation. However, NHTSA has stated that based on available data, there’s no greater risk of fire with a Volt than a traditional gasoline-powered car,” he continued.
“Safety protocols for electric vehicles are clearly an industry concern. At GM, we have safety protocols to depower the battery of an electric vehicle after a significant crash,” Federico said. “We are working with other vehicle manufacturers, first responders, tow truck operators, and salvage associations with the goal of implementing industry-wide protocols.”
For further information:
