Fighting electric vehicle (EV) fires poses unique challenges for firefighters, requiring specialized techniques to ensure safety. In support of these efforts, Tesla donated a fire-ravaged Model 3 to an organization focused on EV fire safety.
The vehicle, dubbed “Testla” by the EV FireSafe team, was thoroughly dissected during a six-hour investigation, providing valuable insights into fire dynamics and prevention methods. The incident, which occurred in Australia, involved the Model 3 running over an 18-kilogram truck tail shaft, causing thermal runaway and subsequent ignition.
Despite the rarity of EV fires compared to traditional vehicle fires, ongoing research and collaboration aim to enhance firefighting capabilities and mitigate risks.