EVs Outshine Gas Cars in Fire Safety – Here’s the Data to Prove It

Summary

• There’s a widespread misconception that electric cars are more likely to catch fire than gasoline-powered cars
• Despite this perception, actual data shows that EVs have a significantly lower fire rate compared to traditional vehicles
• Media sensationalism, misunderstanding of battery technology, and the unique challenges of extinguishing EV fires contribute to the narrative
• While EV fires are more challenging to extinguish, they are far less frequent
• The evidence clearly indicates that EVs outperform gas vehicles in fire safety

The entire automotive industry has been transformed by electric vehicles (EVs), which promise a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars. Nevertheless, along with the rise of EVs has come an argument that they catch fire more than their gasoline counterparts. Stories of battery explosions and spontaneous car fires have contributed to this perception leading many to wonder if EVs are safe enough for use. But how much of this is rooted in fact and how much is fueled by fear?

Numbers show another story despite what headlines may say. In reality, electric vehicles are far less likely to catch fire than gasoline-powered cars. However, this belief persists even though studies indicate that there is a lower frequency of fires in EVs compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.