A routine crash test for the Chevrolet Volt has prompted a federal investigation of the lithium-ion batteries that power electric cars.
According to Reuters, the incident has led to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration turning its attention toward manufacturers of electric vehicles, and asking for details about how they handle the batteries and minimize fire risk.
However, the agency has made it abundantly clear that the incident appears to be a fluke thus far, and reiterated its support of the Volt and other electric vehicles.
Various reports indicate that the Volt crash test occurred in May, and the fire broke out several weeks later in the massive, T-shaped battery that runs from the back of the car and through the center of its frame. General Motors stated that it was not aware of any prior incidents like this with the Volt, and the NHTSA said it hasn’t received any consumer complaints about this type of fire with the Volt or other electric vehicles.
General Motors and NHTSA were also unable to replicate the fire in follow-up tests, so it seems like electric vehicles continue to get the green light from federal safety agencies.
“First and foremost, I want to make this very clear: The Volt is a safe car,” said GM’s chief engineer for electric vehicles, Jim Federico, in an official statement. “We are working cooperatively with NHTSA as it completes its investigation. However, NHTSA has stated that based on available data, there’s no greater risk of fire with a Volt than a traditional gas-powered car.”
So one fire in a car that also carries gasoline, and the “Government” needs to “investigate” lithium ion batteries. Just as lithium batteries are becoming the nascent technology in automobiles.Sounds more like the “Government” protecting it’s investment in crude oil………………………………………Gee how many cell phone fires have occurred?
“crash test occurred in May, and the fire broke out several weeks later…….” Oh that’s dangerous! just don’t leave any crashed electrics in your garage for weeks at a time
This is really dissapointing. Such important future technology should really be doing a lot better then this >.
Uh oh! GM making crap STILL! Which is why we will never buy their crap again! They haven’t learned why people have deserted them yet! Because they make crap ON PURPOSE! We are not fools ANYMORE! Just because they are American doesn’t our loyalty is blind!
what’s funny is that this is the investment if governments all across north america up in smoke
It’s a shame cars don’t run on sarcasm. lol
Gasoline never causes fires in crashes… Batteries are just way to dangerous!
HUH?? I’ve seen fires involving gasoline in serious vehicle crashes……not often but your “never” comment is not warranted. Any stored energy can be dangerous