EV fires in Malaysia: crash causes majority, only one due to charging

When it comes to the safety of electric vehicles, nothing grabs attention like an EV fire. Yet, before jumping to conclusions, let’s break down what’s really happening with EV fires in Malaysia. It’s simple: this year, only four EV fires were reported, and out of those, three were crash-related. Just one? Caused by charging.

EV Fire Stats in Malaysia: The Reality Check

Four EV fires in a year might sound like a lot, but in the broader scheme of things, it’s barely a blip on the radar. Gas-powered cars are statistically more likely to catch fire compared to EVs, and this year's data on EV fires in Malaysia makes the case even clearer.

Let’s break down the four incidents:

1. Three Fires from Crash Damage: The majority were a direct result of significant impact damage. These weren’t casual fender benders; the crashes caused structural battery harm, which led to fires.
2. One Fire from Charging: Just one case occurred during charging, and even this wasn’t due to standard, at-home charging. It was a rare instance at a public charging station.

For context, traditional cars have thousands of internal explosions per minute (a.k.a. combustion). EVs, on the other hand, operate on battery power. Fires in EVs are much less common, and when they do happen, it’s often due to a collision.

The Electric Advantage: Why EV Fires Are Less Common

Electric cars are, by design, less likely to catch fire. Thanks to advanced battery management systems and better thermal management, EV fires don’t just happen randomly. If a crash occurs, EV batteries are equipped with safety mechanisms that help prevent fires.

The Safeguards in Place for EV Charging

EV charging stations across Malaysia are equipped with the latest safety tech to protect against overheating or potential fires. To reduce risks, always charge your EV at reputable, well-maintained stations and use proper charging equipment.

Want to make sure you’re up to speed with the latest in EV safety and other automotive news? Download the Motorist App! You’ll get real-time updates, a free car valuation, and access to buying and selling features to keep your vehicle journey as safe as possible.

The Bottom Line

This year’s data on EV fires in Malaysia doesn’t point to a cause for alarm. While EV technology is still evolving, the low number of incidents and the clear causes indicate that EVs are incredibly safe. The next time you hear about an EV fire, remember these facts: crashes, not malfunctions, cause the majority, and with the proper charging practices, you can avoid almost all risk during charging.

Download the Motorist App to stay informed about EV safety, local automotive news, and free tools to optimize your driving experience.

Read More: EV fire blankets

Download the Motorist App now. Designed by drivers for drivers, this all-in-one app lets you receive the latest traffic updates, gives you access to live traffic cameras, and helps you manage vehicle related matters.