The International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) has updated its best practice paper regarding risk mitigation for the safe ocean and short-sea carriage of electric vehicles (EVs).
Back in 2023, the International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) published a set of best practices and recommendations for the safe carriage of electric vehicles, as part of its ongoing support of loss prevention guidance to the global marine insurance and shipping sectors.
The association has now published an updated version titled “Risk mitigation for the safe ocean and short-sea carriage of electric vehicles”, focusing on risks and risk mitigation options associated with the carriage of electric vehicles (EVs) on two different ship types: Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs) and RoRo/RoPax vessels.
Potential gas accumulation
During thermal runaway, flammable gases may be released. If these gases accumulate in unventilated spaces, they pose an explosion risk. Research into the composition of gases from EV fires is ongoing. Effective firefighting must address both extinguishing fires and managing potentially explosive gases, integrating firefighting and ventilation without reducing system effectiveness.
Total energy release and peak temperatures
Recent fire tests indicate that total energy released by EVs and ICEVs is similar, though EVs may exhibit higher peak heat release depending on battery type. Some studies show no significant difference in peak temperatures, while others report EV fires can exceed 1,000°C, compared to ~600°C for ICEVs. For underwriters, the focus should be on overall risk, especially if fires are not rapidly contained.
Challenges with PCTC ship design
Current PCTCs have large, undivided horizontal decks, unlike older subdivided designs, allowing fires to spread rapidly and making containment difficult.
“Fixed First” approach for PCTCs
Fixed firefighting systems should be activated promptly and safely, before manual intervention, as accessing burning vehicles is dangerous. Early system activation prevents fires from reaching EV batteries and spreading. Manual firefighting should only supplement the fixed system to save lives.
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Limitations of foam-based extinguishing systems
High-expansion foam may suppress ignition and prevent heat transmission but has drawbacks: complex operation requiring electricity, reduced penetration and heat resistance in new eco-friendly foams, and a high threshold for “fixed first” deployment due to risks of unnecessary release.
The volume of cars being shipped by maritime transport globally is around 20 million units per annum. EVs have been transported in ever larger numbers since 2017. There appears to be an increasing frequency of fires onboard car carriers although none to date have been found to be solely attributable to an electric vehicle – although it is possible that an EV was the culprit.
…said Lars Lange, Secretary General, IUMI.
In an exclusive interview to SAFETY4SEA, Lars Lange highlighted that insurers must fully understand the impact of new, cleaner technologies so they can provide adequate cover, as new and cleaner cargoes – such as battery energy storage systems – are increasingly being carried by sea.
