27 EV, Hybrid Car Fires Reported Since 2023, JBPM Steps Up Response

The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has responded to 27 electric vehicle (EV) and hybrid car fire cases since last year, averaging about 10 incidents annually across the country.

Deputy Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu said that although EVs are seen as a greener alternative to traditional cars, they bring their own set of challenges.

“The JBPM considers EV fires one of the biggest challenges due to the high level of risk during firefighting operations

The use of fire blankets is among the most effective methods for extinguishing EV fires, in addition to water and foam,” she told the Dewan Negara during a Q&A session on Tuesday.

She was replying to Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim, who asked if the ministry intended to supply fire blankets to fire stations in major cities following the recent rise in EV and hybrid-related fire cases.

According to Aiman Athirah, the department has already purchased 318 fire blankets worth RM915,000 this year for distribution to selected stations. 

"30 more units were contributed by the Malaysia Zero Emission Vehicle Association (MyZEVA), with deliveries completed in stages between December 2024 and May this year," she added.

She further stated that JBPM is also studying the use of other specialised equipment such as immersion containers and cooling agents. For now, firefighters continue to rely mainly on water to bring down battery heat and contain the spread of flames.

“Other cooling agents like dry powder, clean agent and inert gas are not suitable for open areas because they require the concept of total flooding to work effectively,” she explained.