EV Fires in India: Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming popular across India as people shift towards cleaner and greener transport. But at the same time, a new problem is coming to light—EVs catching fire. These incidents are being reported more often, especially with electric two-wheelers, raising serious concerns about safety.
There’s no single reason behind these fires. In most cases, it’s a mix of poor battery quality, lack of thermal management, unsafe charging methods, and weak safety checks. As India moves forward with its EV plans, it’s important to fix these gaps to keep people safe and build trust in electric mobility.
The Main Reasons EVs Catch Fire
Poor-quality batteries are one of the biggest causes of EV fires. Many electric scooters and bikes sold in India use low-grade lithium-ion cells, which are cheaper but less reliable. These batteries often don’t have proper battery management systems (BMS), which are supposed to control charging and heat. Without a good BMS, the battery can easily overheat and catch fire, especially in hot weather.
India’s climate adds to the problem. With temperatures often going above 40°C in summer, EVs without proper cooling systems are more likely to suffer from thermal runaway. This is a condition where the battery temperature keeps rising uncontrollably, eventually leading to fire or explosion.
Another major issue is unsafe charging habits. Many people charge their EVs at home using ordinary power sockets and local extension cords. These setups are not built to handle the high power demands of EVs. On top of that, the chargers used are often unbranded or uncertified, making them dangerous. If the current is too high or the socket is old, the wiring can overheat and trigger a fire.
In several cases, EV fires have occurred while the vehicle was being charged overnight in closed spaces like basements or garages. Poor ventilation adds to the risk, as heat builds up without any release.
Some EVs sold in the Indian market, especially low-speed scooters below 250W, are not even required to be registered or certified. This loophole allows some manufacturers to avoid safety tests, resulting in unsafe products reaching the public. These vehicles are often sold without proper insulation, battery protection, or even proper wiring.
Real Cases That Show the Problem
In Maharashtra, a Tata Nexon EV caught fire, raising questions about battery safety even in high-end models. Although the company stated it was an isolated case, the news created panic among existing and potential EV owners.
In cities like Chennai and Hyderabad, several imported electric scooters caught fire due to poor-quality batteries. These models were often sold online or through small dealers, with little to no after-sales support.
In Bengaluru, a major EV showroom witnessed a fire that started from batteries kept in storage. The fire spread rapidly due to the plastic components and lack of fire suppression systems.
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These incidents show that EV fires can happen in both budget and premium segments. What they have in common is a failure to follow safety practices, whether it’s poor battery quality, bad charging infrastructure, or lack of regulation.
How Better Charging Infrastructure Can Prevent Fires
The use of certified and smart chargers is one of the most effective ways to reduce fire risks. These chargers come with built-in features like temperature monitoring, auto shut-off, and surge protection. If something goes wrong during charging—like overheating or a power spike—the charger can stop the process immediately.
At home, it’s important to use a dedicated charging point installed by a qualified electrician. The circuit should be separate from the rest of the home wiring and include proper grounding and overload protection. Avoid using normal three-pin plugs, as they are not designed for high power output.
Public charging stations also need to follow safety standards. Many places in India are now setting up fast-charging stations, but maintenance and safety checks must be done regularly. These stations should also be equipped with fire extinguishers and proper ventilation.
Smart chargers are an upgrade over basic models. They can communicate with the EV’s battery system, adjusting the charging rate based on temperature and charge level. This not only improves battery life but also lowers the chance of overheating.
What Can Be Done
Manufacturers need to use safer battery chemistries like lithium iron phosphate (LFP), which are more stable under heat. They should also ensure that every battery pack has an advanced BMS and cooling system. Government testing and certification should be made stricter, especially for low-cost vehicles.
Charging companies should install only certified chargers, train their staff, and maintain the stations properly. Consumers should follow safe charging habits, like charging in open areas and avoiding cheap accessories. Local authorities and housing societies can also help by offering safe and dedicated EV charging zones.
By improving both the battery and charging ecosystem, India can significantly reduce the chances of EV fires. Safe and reliable infrastructure will help people feel confident about switching to electric mobility and support the country’s green goals.
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