A new investigation into fire risks linked to electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs) has outlined measures to improve the design and safety of charging infrastructure. Commissioned by Connected Places Catapult, part of Innovate UK, the study highlights the importance of fire risk assessments to ensure safe site development, as larger eHGV batteries pose a greater potential for severe incidents.

Previous fires involving electric vehicles have shown extreme thermal energy, making them difficult to extinguish. With eHGVs having significantly larger batteries, careful site planning is essential to prevent fire spread. The study recommends expanding space between vehicles and charging points, while sites with limited space should use fire barriers, isolation areas, and enhanced detection systems. Research suggests EVs are less likely to catch fire than petrol or diesel vehicles, though their fires are often more severe. Overheating, overcharging, and manufacturing defects are potential causes, though many remain unidentified due to the destruction these fires cause.

To improve safety, the report calls for better awareness of eHGV fire risks within transport and logistics. It stresses the need for site segregation to prevent widespread damage and recommends thermal sensors, AI-powered CCTV detection, and onboard battery management systems that isolate failing batteries before a fire escalates.

These measures, already in use for electric buses, should now be adopted for eHGV charging infrastructure to ensure safer operations and reduce potential risks.