September 4, 2025 — The International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) has issued updated guidance on the risks associated with transporting electric vehicles (EVs) at sea, reflecting growing concern over fire hazards and the unique challenges posed by lithium-ion batteries.
Although no shipboard fires have been definitively linked to EVs alone, IUMI noted that the rising number of battery-powered cars being shipped makes it essential for carriers and insurers to adapt fire safety strategies. The organisation highlighted that EV fires behave differently from those involving traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, often producing higher peak temperatures, explosive gas emissions, and the risk of reignition even after initial suppression.
Among the key changes, IUMI warns that gases released during thermal runaway, including hydrogen, can accumulate and increase the danger of explosions in poorly ventilated areas. It stressed the importance of early activation of fixed firefighting systems and urged operators to reduce reliance on manual crew intervention once a blaze reaches EV batteries. The group also flagged limitations with foam-based extinguishing systems, calling for a more careful assessment of alternative technologies such as water mist and expanded CO₂ capacity on board.
The guidance further recommends that EVs be shipped with the lowest possible state of charge, that clear vehicle identification markings be introduced, and that crews receive specialised training in handling battery-related fire incidents. Regular inspection of vehicles before loading, rapid detection through advanced monitoring systems, and extended post-fire cooling were also emphasised as crucial safety measures.
Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs), which are often designed with large, open decks, were singled out as particularly vulnerable to fire spread. IUMI suggested structural and operational upgrades to limit the risks posed by the growing share of EV cargo on such vessels.
The revised recommendations form part of IUMI’s contribution to ongoing work at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), where global regulators are evaluating new standards for EV carriage at sea. With EV shipments expected to rise sharply in the coming years, the updated guidelines underscore the need for the industry to adapt quickly to evolving fire risks.
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