The International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) has released an updated guide to address the safe transportation of electric vehicles (EVs) on ocean and short-sea voyages. This follows their initial recommendations in 2023, aimed at supporting the maritime and insurance sectors with loss prevention strategies. The revised document, titled "Risk Mitigation for the Safe Ocean and Short-Sea Carriage of Electric Vehicles," incorporates new research and practical insights to enhance safety measures for seafarers, ship operators, and insurers. With the global transport of approximately 20 million vehicles annually, including a growing number of EVs since 2017, these guidelines are critical for addressing fire risks and ensuring safe operations.

Key Risks of EV Transportation

Transporting EVs presents unique challenges compared to internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs). While no major fire on a car carrier has been definitively linked to an EV, their fire dynamics differ significantly. EV fires can involve thermal runaway, where battery chemical reactions become unstable, leading to hard-to-extinguish blazes and a higher risk of re-ignition. Research indicates that EV fires may reach peak temperatures exceeding 1,000°C, compared to around 600°C for ICEVs, though total energy release is similar. Additionally, thermal runaway can release flammable gases, creating explosion risks in unventilated spaces. These factors demand tailored firefighting approaches and heightened awareness among crews.

Challenges with Ship Design

The design of Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs) poses specific challenges. Modern PCTCs feature large, undivided decks, allowing fires to spread rapidly and complicating containment efforts. Unlike older designs with subdivided compartments, these open spaces make it difficult for crews to access burning vehicles safely. RoRo and RoPax vessels face additional risks, as they often carry used EVs, which may have hidden battery damage, increasing fire hazards. To address these issues, IUMI recommends clear drivetrain markings, such as color-coded stickers, to help crews identify EVs, ICEVs, or hydrogen-powered vehicles quickly during emergencies.

Firefighting Strategies and Limitations

Effective firefighting is critical to managing EV-related fires. IUMI emphasizes a "Fixed First" approach for PCTCs, where fixed firefighting systems, such as CO2 or high-pressure water mist sprinklers, are activated promptly before manual intervention. Manual firefighting is discouraged due to the dangers of accessing burning vehicles. While CO2 systems are effective, their capacity should be doubled on PCTCs to handle EV fires. Foam-based systems, though useful for preventing heat transfer, have limitations, including complex operation and reduced effectiveness with eco-friendly foams. Water mist systems offer cooling benefits but require ship design changes for broader adoption.

Recommendations for Safe Carriage

IUMI’s updated guidelines provide practical recommendations for safer EV transport:

1. Low State of Charge (SoC): Keep EV battery charge levels as low as possible to reduce overheating risks.
2. Enhanced Firefighting Capacity: Double CO2 system capacity on PCTCs and explore water mist systems.
3. Crew Training: Develop dedicated training for seafarers on PCTCs to handle EV fire risks.
4. Vehicle Screening: Inspect used vehicles for hidden damage, especially on RoRo and RoPax vessels.
5. Early Detection: Install advanced fire detection systems and video monitoring to enable rapid response.

These measures aim to mitigate risks while the International Maritime Organization (IMO) develops global standards through its Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment, with discussions ongoing since March 2025.

Ongoing Industry Efforts

The maritime industry is adapting to the rising volume of EVs, with IUMI contributing to IMO’s fire safety action plan for ships carrying new energy vehicles. The updated guidelines reflect evolving research, ensuring seafarers and operators are equipped to handle the unique risks of EV transport. By implementing these recommendations, ports and vessels can enhance safety, reduce economic losses, and protect crews and the environment.

Resource: https://iumi.com.