China recently conducted a test on a revolutionary system designed to enhance the safety of electric vehicles (EVs) in the event of a battery fire. The system, developed in collaboration with Joyson Electronics, is capable of detecting thermal runaway within the battery pack and ejecting it from the vehicle in less than a second.
The primary goal of this system is to prevent the spread of fire within the vehicle and ensure the safety of the occupants. The battery pack is forcefully jettisoned from underneath the car, reaching a distance of 10 to 20 feet away from the vehicle. This allows emergency crews to handle the smoldering pack more effectively and efficiently.
While the concept of ejecting a burning battery pack may seem risky and unconventional, it addresses a critical issue faced by fire departments when dealing with EV fires. Once a single cell in the battery ignites, it triggers a chain reaction that is challenging to contain. This phenomenon, known as thermal runaway, poses a significant safety risk to both the vehicle occupants and emergency responders.
In its current form, the system’s approach may appear crude and potentially hazardous, as demonstrated in a video where the battery pack is forcefully ejected from the vehicle with a loud bang. The uncontrolled trajectory of the battery pack could pose a danger to nearby vehicles and pedestrians.
However, with further refinement and development, this system could potentially offer a viable solution to mitigate the risks associated with EV battery fires. Incorporating advanced sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence could enhance the system’s ability to detect and respond to thermal runaway effectively.
While the current implementation of the battery ejection system may not be ready for widespread adoption, it represents an innovative approach to addressing a critical safety concern in the EV industry. As technology continues to evolve, solutions like these could play a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of electric vehicle users.